The Federal Communications Commission said on Friday it has approved SpaceX's request to deploy another 7,500 second-generation Starlink satellites as it works to boost internet service worldwide.

By now you've heard the news: SpaceX will conduct an initial public offering of stock in 2026 -- at a valuation of $1.5 trillion. CEO Elon Musk personally owns 42% of the company. Added to the $484 billion Musk is already worth, a $1.5 trillion valuation on SpaceX would make him officially the world's first trillionaire.

The FCC's partial grant lets SpaceX operate 7,500 more satellites, for a total of over 19,000 in Earth's orbit, and use even more radio bands at higher power limits.

A Falcon 9 rocket carrying about 40 payloads, including NASA's Pandora exoplanet satellite, is scheduled to lift off from California's Vandenberg Space Force Base during a 57-minute window that opens at 8:19 a.m. EST (1319 GMT and 5:19 a.m. local California time).

SpaceX is now seeking FAA approval to add new trajectories as Starship strives to reach orbit. Under the plan, the rocket would fly over land in Florida and Mexico, as well as the airspace of Cuba, Jamaica and the Cayman Islands, likely disrupting hundreds of flights.

Shotwell has an expansive role at the rocket and satellite company, helping to foster its rise. With an IPO looming, the toughest stretch may still lie ahead.

Baillie Gifford & Co. pushed back against an attack by activist investor Boaz Weinstein, who’s demanded the Scottish fund house explain why one of its trusts sold down a stake in SpaceX.

The number of orbital launch attempts worldwide last year surpassed the record 2024 flight rate by 25 percent, with SpaceX and China accounting for the bulk of the launch activity, Aviation Week & Space Technology reports.