SpaceX Use of VHF Beacons on Starlinks OK'd

The FCC Space Bureau approved SpaceX using VHF-band radiofrequency beacons on up to 450 of its second-generation Starlink satellites, according to a bureau order in Thursday's Daily Digest. It said the approval lets SpaceX track and maintain contact with the company's satellites during orbit raising and in case of emergencies. The agency said it will separately address SpaceX's pending request to operate second-gen Starlinks with the beacons at lower altitudes of 340-360 km.