SpaceX has set an aggressive timeline when it comes to the global expansion of its Starlink satellite internet service and the rollout of its second-gen Starlink satellites. This new second-gen satellite will add new abilities, better speeds, greater coverage, and even work with T-Mobile phones to remove any dead spots, at least for texting.
Now though, Dish Network and an environmental group International Dark-Sky Association are working to stop SpaceX’s second-generation Starlink Network because of the light pollution it may cause. These new satellites are significantly larger than the first-generation version, and many fear that will increase light pollution. Though Dish is also worried that Starlink will disrupt access to Dish’s Satellite TV business.
The FCC has approved 7,500 satellites but is well short of the 29,988 that SpaceX had requested. So far though, concerns over Starlink’s light pollution have not stopped the FCC in the past. DISH’s argument is the FCC should have ordered a new environmental review of the second-gen Starlink satellites.
“The order leaves millions of families receiving satellite television service from Dish in the same frequency band vulnerable to interference. It is unlawful and should be set aside for several reasons,” the DISH said in its court filing.
DISH and SpaceX have been fighting it out recently as both companies look to gain access to radio spectrum for their services. So far, both companies don’t seem to be interested in backing down and this maybe just one more way the fight between the two companies will continue.
SpaceX hopes this new network will bring increased speeds, coverage, and the ability to work with mobile phones. The first batch of these satellites are now in space being tested as Starlink gets ready to mass produce them.
Do you use SpaceX’s Starlink? Leave us a comment and let us know what you think of it.