CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — SpaceX has activated its Direct to Cell satellite service in response to Hurricane Milton, allowing basic text messaging and emergency alerts for residents in affected areas. This move comes as part of a broader initiative that includes the delivery of more than 10,000 Starlink kits to aid recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene.
In collaboration with T-Mobile, the newly activated service enables texting for those on T-Mobile networks, allowing users to send messages to loved ones, contact emergency services via 911, and receive alerts. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) granted emergency special temporary authority to facilitate the satellite-based coverage ahead of the storm’s anticipated impact in Florida.
“Text messages have already been sent and received,” SpaceX announced. The service is intended to function on a best-effort basis, with coverage potentially varying depending on location and conditions.
Phones that connect to a Starlink satellite will display “T-Mobile SpaceX” as the network and show one to two bars of signal strength. SpaceX advises users that they may need to retry sending messages if they encounter initial difficulties. The service is optimized for outdoor use, although it may also function indoors near windows.
The activation of Direct to Cell adds to SpaceX’s emergency response efforts as Florida braces for Hurricane Milton. The initiative aims to improve communication access in disaster zones, where traditional cellular networks may be disrupted.
