06 May 2025

As per Reuters, Brazil’s telecommunications regulator, Anatel, has granted SpaceX approval to operate an additional 7,500 Starlink satellites in the country’s airspace, further expanding the reach of its satellite internet service.

As of now, Starlink has 4,408 active satellites operating in Brazil, providing internet connectivity across the nation. The recent regulatory approval not only allows for the deployment of more satellites but also includes the expansion of frequency bands, which is crucial for optimizing the performance of the satellite network. Despite this expansion, SpaceX’s existing authorizations will remain valid until their expiration date in 2027.

Alongside the approval for additional satellites, Anatel emphasized the necessity for Brazilian lawmakers to update the country’s regulatory framework. The agency pointed out existing gaps in legislation concerning market regulation, space sustainability, and digital sovereignty that need to be addressed to effectively accommodate emerging technologies such as low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites. This call for regulatory reform reflects a broader trend seen globally as countries seek to adapt their legal frameworks to better integrate new technologies and market dynamics.

The approval in Brazil marks another significant milestone for SpaceX’s Starlink, which has been rapidly expanding its global presence. Earlier in the month, the company also secured regulatory clearance to establish a ground station in Vietnam, indicating its ambitions to broaden its footprint in emerging markets.