The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has granted emergency authority to SpaceX and T-Mobile, allowing them to provide satellite-to-phone coverage in areas affected by Hurricane Helene. This special temporary authorization enables Starlink satellites to deliver direct-to-cell services, ensuring that cell phones in impacted regions, like North Carolina, receive emergency alerts and potentially basic SMS capabilities on the T-Mobile network.
SpaceX has activated these satellites to support wireless emergency alerts across various carriers in North Carolina. Ben Longmier, SpaceX’s senior director of satellite engineering, mentioned that they are also monitoring Hurricane Milton and are prepared to respond in Florida if needed. Although the service is operational, SpaceX has cautioned that its direct-to-cell constellation is not yet fully deployed, so services are being provided on a best-effort basis.
The FCC’s approval permits SpaceX to operate using frequencies leased from T-Mobile, helping ensure communication continuity in disaster-hit regions. The commission has also issued special temporary authorities and rule waivers to aid communication providers in maintaining service and supporting emergency operations during such crises.
Despite the progress, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk has been vocal about his dissatisfaction with the FCC’s decision to reject Starlink’s $885.51 million funding for broadband deployment. Musk argued that if the grant had not been revoked, thousands of Starlink kits could have been available in North Carolina to help with hurricane recovery. The FCC maintained that its denial was based on a thorough review, emphasizing that public funds should only be allocated to companies that meet specific program criteria.
The debate highlights the broader issue of funding innovative but developing technologies like Starlink. While the FCC acknowledges Starlink’s potential, it decided against subsidizing the technology at this stage, citing concerns over capacity constraints and costs. Nonetheless, SpaceX remains committed to providing emergency communication services to areas affected by natural disasters.