Starlink Reapplies For IN-SPACe Nod For 30,000-Satellite Gen 2 Network: Report

Elon Musk-led Starlink has reapplied to India’s space regulator for authorisation of its second-generation satellite constellation, which will include direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity capabilities. 

The SpaceX-operated satellite internet company has sought approval from the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) for a constellation comprising nearly 30,000 low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, the Economic Times reported, citing sources. 

The proposed satellites will operate at altitudes ranging from 340 kilometres to 615 kilometres. 

Starlink had earlier sought approval for both its Gen 1 and Gen 2 constellations. However, IN-SPACe approved only the Gen 1 constellation, comprising 4,408 LEO satellites, in July 2025. 

The regulator rejected the company’s earlier Gen 2 application because certain features and spectrum bands did not conform to Indian requirements, according to the report. 

Inc42 has reached out to Starlink for comments on the development. The story will be updated on receiving a response.

Starlink Eyes D2D Connectivity

Starlink’s Gen 2 constellation will offer capabilities such as D2D connectivity, which allows compatible mobile devices to connect directly with satellites without relying entirely on terrestrial telecom infrastructure. 

The technology can help extend mobile connectivity to remote and underserved regions where conventional telecom networks have limited coverage. 

The renewed application comes as the government is considering opening additional spectrum bands for satellite communications and working on a regulatory framework for D2D services. 

TRAI is examining the regulatory framework for satellite-based D2D connectivity. However, telecom operators have sought a level playing field between satellite companies offering direct mobile connectivity and traditional telecom service providers. 

SpaceX has proposed deploying around 42,000 satellites as part of its Gen 2 constellation globally. Starlink’s latest application seeks Indian authorisation for nearly 30,000 of these satellites, while the company could seek approval for additional satellites later. 

Commercial Launch Still Pending

Satellite companies require IN-SPACe authorisation before offering services in India. However, major non-geostationary satellite orbit operators, including Starlink, Eutelsat OneWeb, and the Jio-SES joint venture, are yet to begin commercial operations in the country.

The operators are still awaiting spectrum allocation and certain security clearances.

Starlink has already received a global mobile personal communication by satellite licence from the Department of Telecommunications and IN-SPACe’s approval for its Gen 1 constellation. However, it cannot commercially launch its services until the remaining regulatory requirements are completed. 

The company will compete with Eutelsat OneWeb, Amazon Leo, and Reliance Jio’s proposed LEO constellation. Jio is said to be planning a network comprising around 1,600 satellites. 

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