After months of anticipation, SpaceX has finally obtained the necessary FCC license to operate its new “V4” Starlink dish and the upcoming “mini” dish model on moving vehicles, ships, and aircraft. This crucial approval paves the way for the company to expand the reach of its next-generation satellite internet service to a broader range of applications.
Initially, the FCC granted SpaceX a license to utilize the new dishes in fixed positions back in September. However, it was not until last week that the US regulator granted the additional authority for these dishes to operate while in motion, onboard aircrafts, vessels, and mounted vehicles. This decision came despite initial objections from Dish Network, which had urged the FCC to deny SpaceX’s license for “in motion” use, citing concerns over potential radio interference. SpaceX refuted these claims, alleging that Dish was attempting to “block its successful competitor” after the FCC had previously approved SpaceX’s license to use the Starlink dishes on moving vehicles in 2022.
With this new license, SpaceX can now proceed with expanding sales of the next-generation Starlink equipment in the US for various mobile applications. The V4 dish has already replaced the older model for residential users, while the highly anticipated mini Starlink dish is expected to launch later this year, according to CEO Elon Musk.
Although the exact release date for the mini Starlink dish remains unconfirmed, it is speculated that SpaceX may have been awaiting this “in motion” license before launching the product. The compact dish is designed to provide portable satellite internet access to consumers, regardless of their location. In the meantime, SpaceX has already secured deals to install existing Starlink dish equipment on commercial planes and cruise ships, with over 200 cruise ships globally now equipped with the service.
Furthermore, SpaceX has been offering Starlink in-motion use for vehicles such as RVs. However, this currently requires the user to own the flat high-performance dish, as the company’s FAQ states that “in-motion use of Mobile Data is limited to less than 10mph” with the standard equipment.