FCC Chair Wants More Competition to SpaceX's Starlink

WASHINGTON, September 12, 2024 – Federal Communications Commission Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said Wednesday the agency was taking steps to increase competition in the low-Earth orbit satellite internet sector.

Speaking at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Global Aerospace Summit, Rosenworcel emphasized the need for new players to enter the market, warning that monopolies stifle innovation and lead to higher prices. “We see lower prices and more innovation, and honestly, space should be no exception,” Rosenworcel said. 

While Rosenworcel did not directly name SpaceX, her remarks targeted the company’s dominant position, with its Starlink system now controlling nearly two-thirds of active satellites in orbit. Owner Elon Musk recently said that Starlink will likely deliver more than 90% of all cargo – satellites, spacecraft, and equipment – going into space this year.