According to IT Home on November 11, 2026, the U.S. Federal Communications Commission announced on November 10 that it has accepted SpaceX’s application to acquire nationwide 800 MHz spectrum licenses from Grain Management. The transaction has entered the public comment and review process.
Through its subsidiary Starlink Spectrum Holdings, SpaceX seeks to take over 546 paired spectrum licenses covering all 50 U.S. states, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. That footprint corresponds to nearly the entire U.S. population.
The deal is intended to add low-frequency spectrum for Starlink Mobile. Compared with higher bands, 800 MHz signals are better suited to covering wide areas and penetrating buildings, and would complement SpaceX’s satellite network. The company plans to combine satellite direct-to-cell service with terrestrial networks to expand mobile communications.
Obtaining the licenses would not immediately provide nationwide mobile coverage. The transaction itself still requires approval, and SpaceX’s separate request to use the frequencies for satellite supplemental coverage is also under review. Public comments are due December 1 and opposition comments are due December 8. Further progress depends on regulatory review and network deployment.
Original article: IT Home