Key Takeaways
- SpaceX has filed a request with the FCC for permission to launch up to 100,000 Gen3 Starlink satellites.
- The new satellites are expected to deliver 1 terabit per second downlink capacity and 160–200 gigabits per second uplink capacity.
- Each satellite will weigh 2,000 kilograms and operate in very-low Earth orbit at an altitude of around 350 kilometers.
SpaceX has submitted a new application to the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) seeking permission to deploy up to 100,000 next-generation Gen3 Starlink satellites, marking a significant expansion of its satellite internet network.
According to the FCC filing, these new satellites represent a substantial upgrade over the current Gen2 constellation, with each satellite expected to deliver a tenfold increase in downlink capacity and a twenty-twofold improvement in uplink capacity. The Gen3 satellites are anticipated to achieve 1 terabit per second (Tbps) for downlinks and between 160–200 gigabits per second (Gbps) for uplinks.
The larger size and weight of the new satellites—each weighing approximately 2,000 kilograms compared to 575 kilograms for Gen2 satellites—require SpaceX’s Starship rocket for launch. The constellation will operate in very-low Earth orbit (VLEO) at an altitude of around 350 kilometers, significantly reducing latency and improving overall performance.
The new satellites feature advanced phased-array antennas, longer solar panels, next-generation onboard computers and modems, and Argon Hall thrusters for station-keeping. They will also utilize advanced technologies such as electronic beam steering, optical inter-satellite links, and dynamic power control to enhance spectrum sharing and reduce interference.
SpaceX has already begun testing the Gen3 satellites ahead of full deployment. The constellation is expected to operate at nominal altitudes ranging from 323–327.5 kilometers and 473–477.5 kilometers, with orbital inclinations varying between 26 degrees and 96.9 degrees. The network will utilize a wide range of radio spectrum, including Ku-, Ka-, V-, E-, W-, and D-band frequencies.
The Gen3 satellites are part of SpaceX’s ongoing efforts to improve its Starlink network. Previous improvements in the Gen2 satellites included a twentyfold increase in network throughput, reduced latency, direct-to-cell connectivity for unmodified mobile phones, and autonomous collision avoidance capabilities.
To fully utilize the higher download capacity and gigabit-class internet speeds offered by the Gen3 network, existing Starlink user terminals will require hardware upgrades. SpaceX is also working on its first satellite specifically designed for artificial intelligence workloads, known as the AI1 satellite, which supports up to 150 kilowatts of peak computing capacity.
Although the AI1 satellites are not yet in production, SpaceX’s latest FCC filing indicates that the company is preparing to begin mass production of its Gen3 Starlink satellites. This move underscores SpaceX's commitment to enhancing global internet access and expanding its satellite network capabilities.
