SpaceX is moving forward with plans to expand its current broadband satellite service to include text and voice mobile services. The D2D application is approved by the FCC for use in certain US cities and states.
While the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rejected some of SpaceX’s applications in March, others were approved. On March 28, it approved a request from the company submitted a few days earlier, on March 25. The application is intended for ‘experimental’ (“Special Temporary Authority”) test transmissions direct-to-cellular devices from Starlink satellites, according to the Advanced Television report.
The approval takes effect on April 15. Test licenses expire on September 28. The license allows SpaceX to launch second-generation broadband satellites in a large number of US cities and states. Statewide approvals apply to California, Washington, Texas, and Hawaii. Select cities where SpaceX may deploy the service are located in Colorado, Michigan, Florida, New Mexico, Arizona, Indiana, Kansas, Oklahoma, and West Virginia.
Tests will include ‘direct-to-device’ and ‘beam-forming’ transmissions. The purpose of this is to increase the signal strength to and from receivers and mobile phones on the ground.
In February, SpaceX informed the FCC that it wanted to take another step toward realizing its vision of a ‘Single Network Future’ that would bring ubiquitous mobile connectivity to consumers wherever they are. In its announcement, the company demonstrated that SpaceX’s complementary coverage system can operate without interference from other (in-band and out-of-band) cross-border users.
SpaceX concluded its letter with the words: “SpaceX is excited to launch its commercial direct-to-cellular service later this year, with its partner T-Mobile. With this enclosed additional technical information in hand, the Commission can expeditiously grant SpaceX’s applications.”
After comprehensive tests, the company will submit its results to the FCC.
