The spectrum SpaceX recently purchased from EchoStar will let it ‘launch a greatly enhanced second generation direct-to-device system in 2027,’ an exec tells the FCC.
SpaceX is looking to roll out its second-generation cellular Starlink system sometime in 2027.
The company mentioned the date in a new FCC filing that discusses its existing cellular Starlink service, which is available through T-Mobile in the US. “But this is only the beginning: SpaceX has also invested in spectrum that will enable it to launch a greatly enhanced second generation direct-to-device system in 2027,” writes David Goldman, SpaceX’s VP for satellite policy.
The 2027 date isn’t a surprise. In September, SpaceX reached a $17 billion agreement to acquire radio spectrum from EchoStar to upgrade its cellular Starlink service. But the deal isn’t scheduled to close until Nov. 30, 2027, so SpaceX can cover about $2 billion in cash interest payments on EchoStar’s debt obligations. The company can elect to close the acquisition earlier, but it will be more expensive.
SpaceX CEO Elon Musk also mentioned a “two-year timeframe” last fall, citing the need for phone manufacturers to integrate chips capable of receiving signals from the EchoStar spectrum, which includes the 1.
