SpaceX Expands Cellular Starlink Testing Across the US

SpaceX has received the green light from the FCC to broaden its cellular Starlink system testing in the US. 

This move follows the initial approval granted in December for trials in specific locations. 

The Federal Communications Commission's new experimental license allows SpaceX to test the technology in ten additional locations, including statewide testing in California, Washington, Texas, and Hawaii.

This expands the scope significantly from the initial focus on select cities like Mountain View, Dallas, and Pie Town. 

SpaceX aims to use these diverse locations to evaluate how cellular Starlink performs in various terrains.

Their filing to the FCC explains, "These additional locations will enable us to more thoroughly test the direct-to-cellular system, including beam placement and software, in a variety of geographic settings." 

Early tests have been promising. Cellular Starlink satellites have successfully delivered internet data directly to unmodified smartphones on the ground, achieving download speeds up to 17Mbps even under tree cover or indoors.

This technology has the potential to bridge the gap in cellular coverage, offering internet connectivity to remote and rural areas. 

SpaceX is targeting a late 2024 launch for the cellular Starlink system, initially offering text messaging services to T-Mobile customers. 

However, full FCC approval is still required for commercial operation. 

Concerns regarding potential radio interference have been raised by competing telecom providers. 

In a recent letter to the FCC, SpaceX addressed these concerns, stating, "Over two months of daily testing, we haven't received any reports of interference from existing users, nor do we have any reason to believe such interference has occurred." 

The expansion of testing demonstrates SpaceX's commitment to developing this innovative technology and potentially revolutionizing connectivity in underserved areas.