SpaceX’s Starlink is a constellation of satellites in low-Earth orbit (LEO) that provides broadband internet and satellite direct-to-device services. SpaceX is currently authorised by the FCC to launch 4,408 Gen1 and 15,000 Gen2 satellites. In May 2026, the FCC approved SpaceX’s acquisition of EchoStar's 10 MHz of nationwide H-Block spectrum,… Read more...

Microsoft has a "multi-technology and multi-frequency approach" which translates to interests in spectrum across a wide range of bands. Microsoft is also a strong supporter of unlicensed and shared spectrum policies. In February 2026, Microsoft announced a new collaboration with SpaceX’s Starlink combining low-Earth orbit satellite connectivity with community-based deployment… Read more...

Satellite D2D services are reshaping connectivity by enabling direct communication with standard smartphones. This research note explores the approaches of six key players in the industry, focusing on their spectrum strategies and commercial progress. Read more...

SpaceX-owned Starlink continues to amass satellite internet customers, with operational licensing agreements now in place in 125 countries and territories around the world. Typically using fixed satellite service spectrum, SpaceX is showing increasing interest in access to mobile satellite spectrum. Starlink is also ramping up its delivery of satellite direct-to-device… Read more...

Industry consolidation is opening up a multi-orbit strategy for satellite operators, while regulators continue to grapple with satellite-direct-to-device service as more companies are attracted to it. WRC-23 saw a split in the satellite industry between GEO and LEO operators over interference. Read more...

Inmarsat’s acquisition by US operator Viasat may have created a global geostationary satellite operator but its future also lies in a multi-orbit and 4G/5G terrestrial strategy. Read more...

SpaceX’s Starlink continues its aggressive LEO fleet expansion with over 6,000 operational satellites in orbit, over 3 million subscribers and a presence in 99 countries, with the list of national authorisations to provide services continuing to grow. SpaceX urges regulators to preserve satellite access to established Ku- and Ka-band frequencies… Read more...

Microsoft is continuing its march into both the 5G (including private 5G) and telco spaces. In addition to its long-standing support for unlicensed spectrum and spectrum sharing, Microsoft has upped the stakes in the satellite sector, meaning that its interest in spectrum availability for satellite operators has also become a… Read more...

Google has extensive experience in cloud-based spectrum sharing in the CBRS 3.5 GHz band. The company is a key supporter of unlicensed mid-band spectrum, along with unlicensed 60 GHz. Google is active in the private network space and is also venturing into the satellite connectivity space. Read more...

The two years since we last compiled PolicyTracker’s LEO Tracker have seen a gradual move to greater commercial availability for low-earth orbit (LEO) constellations. Read more...