German regulator allocates frequencies to SpaceX for Starlink satellite system

The German Federal Network Agency, Bundesnetzagentur, has allocated frequencies to SpaceX for the Starlink satellite system. The allocation is initially limited to one year in order to be able to assess developments, and make changes if necessary for a longer-term allocation. Starlink has also received frequencies for several earth stations in Germany, which act as gateways to ensure transit and connection to the internet.

The regulator has created the legal framework to provide broadband internet via satellite in Germany, said agency president Jochen Homann. The Starlink satellite system enables satellite-based broadband internet services, including secure connections (VPN) to the home office and remote access (remote desktop), with similar latency as terrestrial networks. There are currently around 800 Starlink satellites in orbit.

This is the first assignment of frequencies for a so-called satellite mega-constellation with a very high number of near-earth orbiting satellites. The allocated spectrum can operate in parallel with other applications in the same and adjacent frequency range, including directional radio, radio astronomy and geostationary satellite applications.