Under the current leadership of the FCC, Starlink is seeking approval to expand its satellite fleet from approximately 6,600 to nearly 30,000, which has raised significant environmental concerns among scientists.

The service has seen a remarkable increase in its customer base, nearing 5 million globally, up from just 2 million in September 2023, prompting Starlink to reinstate a waitlist.

To enhance its service, Starlink aims to achieve 2-gigabit speeds, which would significantly surpass its current offerings, as stated by SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell.

While Starlink claims that its operations do not contribute to orbital debris, NASA-funded studies have raised concerns about potential damage to the ozone layer.

Previously, Starlink implemented a congestion fee of $100 for customers in high-usage regions, indicating the company's ongoing efforts to manage network demand.

Customers attempting to order in these sold-out areas are receiving notifications indicating that Starlink is currently at capacity.

In light of these expansion plans, over 100 researchers have urged the FCC to pause new Starlink launches, citing potential negative impacts on astronomical observations and environmental health.

Experts have expressed concerns regarding Starlink's operational capabilities at such a large scale, suggesting that the company may face challenges in managing this rapid growth.

The reintroduction of the waitlist highlights ongoing challenges for Starlink in meeting the surging demand for its services.

This waitlist has been implemented in several cities across the Western US, including Seattle, Portland, and San Diego, due to capacity issues.

Starlink argues that the addition of more frequencies and satellites is essential to meet the growing demand from various sectors.

CNET's expert staff has conducted thorough research and testing of Starlink's offerings, ensuring reliable recommendations for consumers.