# SpaceX Requests FCC Approval for 100000 Gen3 Starlink Satellites

_Tuesday, July 7, 2026 at 8:00 AM EDT · Infrastructure · Latest · Tier 2 — Notable_

SpaceX has requested FCC approval to launch and operate a third generation satellite constellation of 100000 satellites. Sawyer Merritt posted on X that the company has officially requested the approval. The Gen3 system will include 100000 satellites operating in very low Earth orbit in two bands of thin closely stacked operational shells. Nominal altitudes are 323 to 327.5 km and 473 to 477.5 km. Inclinations offer flexibility from 26 to 96.9 degrees including sun synchronous orbit to optimize coverage. This filing is separate from SpaceX earlier application for up to 1 million AI satellites and the two are distinct constellations.

## Sources

- [SpaceX](https://x.com/SawyerMerritt/status/2074502917906649357)

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Retrieved: 2026-07-09T07:46:14.234Z
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