Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Amazon Requests FCC Approval for 5,100 Direct-to-Phone Satellites

7/28/2026

49 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Amazon filed an FCC request on July 24, 2026 for up to 5,105 direct-to-device satellites.
The filing seeks a 2028 launch in five shells at 510-580 km altitude using Globalstar’s 1.6 GHz and 2.4 GHz spectrum acquired for $11.6 billion.
The constellation will deliver voice, messaging, data and emergency links directly to phones.
Amazon Leo operates over 390 broadband satellites and expects service later in 2026, rivaling SpaceX’s Starlink Mobile.

History

Historical Context

In 1998 the FCC authorized Iridium’s $5 billion, 66-satellite L-band constellation; after deploying only 48 satellites the firm entered Chapter 11 bankruptcy in August 1999. The setback stalled LEO projects until Iridium relaunched a new fleet in 2017-19. Amazon’s 2026 FCC filing for up to 5,105 LEO satellites echoes that ambition, stressing sustainable financing.

1 of 2

Story summary

Amazon filed an FCC request on July 24, 2026 for up to 5,105 direct-to-device satellites.
The filing seeks a 2028 launch in five shells at 510-580 km altitude using Globalstar’s 1.6 GHz and 2.4 GHz spectrum acquired for $11.6 billion.
The constellation will deliver voice, messaging, data and emergency links directly to phones.
Amazon Leo operates over 390 broadband satellites and expects service later in 2026, rivaling SpaceX’s Starlink Mobile.

1 / 2