SpaceX Seeks Spectrum Upgrade for Starlink Upload Speeds

SpaceX is seeking Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approval to expand its use of radio spectrum, a move intended to dramatically enhance Starlink's upload speeds. The company has filed requests to incorporate the 13.75 to 14.0 GHz and 14.5 to 14.8 GHz bands into its satellite internet hardware. The FCC has previously cleared these bands for Earth-to-space transmissions but requires a waiver due to current antenna diameter rules, which exceed those of SpaceX's current dish models. SpaceX argues that utilizing this spectrum will help resolve a significant imbalance between downlink and uplink spectrum, leading to more symmetrical broadband speeds and supporting data-intensive, real-time applications like videoconferencing.

The company's filing indicates that the user terminals, once modified, will remain within applicable radiation hazard limits, suggesting that software updates might be sufficient for older hardware to benefit. This request applies to various Starlink dish models, including the current standard dish, the Starlink Mini, and the second-generation dish, raising hopes that the upload speed upgrade will extend to existing users. SpaceX is also pursuing gigabit speeds for Starlink, though this may require more powerful, enterprise-focused hardware. The FCC's earlier clearance in January to operate the Starlink network at higher power levels suggests that further performance enhancements for current users are anticipated.