Launches of Starlinks With E-Band Capacity Starting in February: SpaceX

SpaceX is again seeking FCC OK to use the E band for its second-generation Starlink constellation. In an International Bureau special temporary authority application Wednesday, it asked for authority to do downlinks in the 71-76 GHz band segment and plinks in the 81-86 GHz band segment. The agency had deferred licensing that gateway spectrum in its second-gen constellation authorization. SpaceX said it expects to start launching satellites with E-band capacity starting in early February. It said by following ITU interference criteria for protecting passive systems in the 86-92 GHz band, it will guarantee the temporary operations don't interfere with government earth exploration satellite service systems in adjacent bands.