Satellite Operators Opposed to SpaceX’s Planned Direct-to-Cell Constellation

WASHINGTON, Jan. 8, 2026 – Other satellite operators are not excited about SpaceX’s plan to launch a new 15,000-satellite constellation for its direct-to-cell service.

“This proposed expansion of SpaceX’s operating authority would give it an even greater ability and incentive to foreclose other operators from accessing and using limited orbital and spectrum resources on a competitive basis,” Viasat wrote in a petition to deny posted Tuesday.

“At the same time,” the company continued, “the proposed operations would generate insurmountable interference risks for other spectrum users and the customers they serve, preclude other operators from accessing and using scarce spectral and orbital resources on an equitable basis, undermine and foreclose competition and innovation, and otherwise harm the public.”