SpaceX Files FCC Complaint Against Amazon Over Unauthorized Satellite Orbit Altitude
Key Takeaways
- ▸SpaceX alleges Amazon and Arianespace deployed satellites 50-90 km higher than authorized, triggering 30 Starlink collision avoidance maneuvers
- ▸Amazon claims it disclosed the altitude change to the FCC and notes SpaceX previously launched Amazon satellites to similar altitudes without complaint
- ▸The dispute underscores growing coordination challenges as multiple mega-constellations operate in crowded low-Earth orbit
Summary
SpaceX has filed a complaint with the FCC accusing Amazon and launch partner Arianespace of deploying 32 satellites into orbits significantly higher than authorized during a February Ariane 64 launch. According to SpaceX's filing, the satellites were deployed between 50 and 90 kilometers higher than the approved 400-kilometer altitude, forcing Starlink satellites to perform 30 collision avoidance maneuvers within hours and allegedly violating orbital debris mitigation protocols.
Amazon responded by expressing surprise at the complaint, noting that SpaceX itself conducted three missions launching Amazon LEO satellites to approximately 460 kilometers altitude in 2025 without objection. Amazon stated it had disclosed the altitude change to the FCC in multiple reports and offered solutions to SpaceX, which the company claims were declined. The dispute highlights growing tensions in the crowded low-Earth orbit as multiple companies deploy massive satellite constellations.
Amazon indicated it would proceed with operational changes and plans to lower its target insertion altitude beginning with its fourth Ariane 64 flight, though the fundamental disagreement over orbital coordination and safety protocols remains unresolved.
- Amazon has committed to lowering insertion altitudes in future launches despite disagreement over SpaceX's characterization of the incident
