Wedoany.com Report on Mar 18th, SpaceX has filed documents with the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in response to controversies surrounding its million-satellite proposal. The company stated it will adopt a phased deployment strategy to monitor potential atmospheric impacts and make adjustments before scaling up. SpaceX wrote in the filing: "SpaceX appreciates commenters' concerns regarding the potential effects of frequent launches and satellite reentries on Earth's atmosphere." The company plans to coordinate with relevant agencies to study the interaction between the orbital data center system and Earth's atmosphere.
The document does not specify the number of satellites to be launched in the early phases but notes that initial operations will be limited to a number of satellites smaller than the authorized maximum to allow for monitoring of actual impacts. The proposed satellite constellation is massive in scale, potentially requiring thousands of rocket launches. The satellites are designed to operate for several years before being decommissioned, with some deorbiting and burning up in the atmosphere. SpaceX has already retired aging Starlink satellites through atmospheric reentry, but scientists have raised concerns that this may release ozone-depleting chemicals. Astronomer Jonathan McDowell estimates that approximately 1,500 Starlink satellites have already deorbited.
In the filing, SpaceX stated that the company has been exploring methods to assess the atmospheric impact of reentering satellites. However, it simultaneously urged the FCC to reject calls for lengthy environmental reviews under the National Environmental Policy Act. The company cited European Space Agency research indicating that the atmospheric impact of spacecraft reentry is relatively low, but the study also noted uncertainties in modeling. The FCC's online system has received over 1,400 comments, with many expressing concerns about interference with astronomy and light pollution. SpaceX responded by stating that it is taking measures to dim satellites to reduce visibility and emphasized that orbital data centers, powered by solar energy, represent an environmentally friendly option to meet AI demands.
SpaceX also criticized competitors such as Amazon, accusing them of "fearmongering" and misunderstanding the proposal. The document refuted Amazon's assertion about monopolizing orbital space, stating that the system would occupy only 0.005% of orbital space. The FCC has not yet ruled on the proposal, but Commission Chairman Brendan Carr stated last week that Amazon should focus on its own satellite efforts rather than criticizing SpaceX. The phased deployment of the million-satellite plan aims to balance technological innovation with environmental responsibility, and future progress will be closely monitored by regulatory bodies and the scientific community.
