SpaceX is seeking access to at least 80,000 U.S. cell sites, Bloomberg reported, as it pursues ground infrastructure to support a wireless service alongside its satellite network.
Bloomberg cited people familiar with private discussions and named Crown Castle among the companies involved. The report did not say site agreements had been signed or provide a timetable.
SpaceX’s Oct. 8 filing with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) describes a proposed ground network using radios and antennas on towers, rooftops and other structures. The company says this system would work alongside its satellite service, with low-band spectrum intended to extend coverage indoors.
Separately, SpaceX agreed to acquire all of Grain Management’s nationwide 800 MHz spectrum portfolio. The FCC filing describes a proposed transfer of licenses covering up to 14 megahertz of paired spectrum to Starlink Spectrum Holdings. Grain said completion depends on FCC approval and the parties meeting the remaining closing requirements.
An FCC order issued Oct. 6 separately authorized SpaceX to launch and operate a 15,000-satellite system for direct-to-device and related services. That authorization does not approve the spectrum transfer.
At Crown Castle’s Oct. 21 earnings call, CEO Chris Hillabrant said, “You can assume that we’re talking to all parties.” He did not identify customers, so his comment does not confirm a SpaceX site agreement.
Reuters reported that on Oct. 23 Crown Castle shares rose 11.6%, American Tower gained 4.9% and SBA Communications rose 4.6%. AT&T fell 5.6%, Verizon declined 1.6% and T-Mobile lost 5%.
TD Cowen’s estimate, reported by Reuters, put the potential network’s cost above $80 billion, with construction taking years. SpaceX has not disclosed a budget for the reported site effort. Grain’s announcement said the spectrum transfer requires FCC approval before it can close; it gave no decision date.
