SpaceX is seeking approval from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to launch nearly 30,000 additional Starlink satellites, significantly increasing the current authorization of 7,500 satellites.

This expansion aims to enhance Starlink's network performance by utilizing additional radio spectrum and positioning satellites at lower altitudes of 340 to 365 kilometers, which could reduce latency to below 20 milliseconds.

If approved, this move could greatly enhance global internet coverage, particularly benefiting remote and underserved regions.

However, the proposal may face scrutiny from regulators, astronomers, and other satellite operators concerned about orbital congestion and potential scientific interference.

Astronomers have already raised alarms about the impact of increased satellite numbers on both optical and radio astronomy, which could affect visibility of celestial bodies.

Existing Starlink satellites have already hindered the capabilities of telescopes like the European Low-Frequency Array due to their radio wave emissions.

In response to these concerns, the International Astronomical Union is collaborating with SpaceX to find solutions to mitigate the impact on astronomy and preserve the night sky.

The radio frequencies used by satellites may also spill over into protected bands for radio astronomy, complicating the situation further.

Precise tracking of satellite positions will be crucial to avoid collisions with space debris and the International Space Station.

The FCC's decision will be closely monitored to see how it balances the need for technological innovation with the sustainable use of Earth's orbital environment.

The last four years have seen a dramatic increase in the number of satellites in low-Earth orbit, rising from 2,200 to around 14,000, with plans for even more.

Elon Musk has emphasized that the Starship rocket is essential for launching the large number of satellites required for the second-generation Starlink network.