FCC Moves Forward on NPRM on Satellite Rules
Would Update Spectrum and Power Limit Rules Established in the 1990s
The FCC Monday voted to move forward with a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that would promote efficient spectrum sharing between geostationary and non-geostationary satellite systems.
"This Notice of Proposed Rulemaking would examine modern satellite technology and operations to address the single-most constraining regulatory requirement on broadband satellite systems today."
Clay DeCell, FCC
To take account of today’s satellite technology and operations and to promote efficient co-existence and expanded services to American consumers, the item would review power limits developed in the 1990s on non-geostationary satellite orbit, fixed-satellite service systems for the protection of geostationary satellite networks.
Specifically, the NPRM will:
Initiate a review of the decades-old spectrum sharing regime between geostationary and non-geostationary satellite systems operating in the 10.7-12.7, 17.3-18.6, and 19.7-20.2 GHz bands.
Invite comment on how satellite technology and operations have changed since equivalent power-flux density limits were developed and adopted, how the current limits protect geostationary networks and impact the services provided by non-geostationary systems, and whether alternative sharing frameworks would promote greater efficiency to the benefit of American consumers.
Invite comment on what short-term and long-term protection criteria would be appropriate for today’s geostationary networks, and which reference links should be used to assess compliance with the protection criteria.
Invite comment on the potential for improved information sharing among geostationary and non-geostationary satellite operators to enhance efficient spectrum sharing, how to address concerns related to aggregate interference, and how to ensure continued protection of co-frequency terrestrial stations.
Grant a petition for rulemaking filed by Space Exploration Holdings, LLC, to initiate this proceeding and deny the oppositions to the petition.
"This Notice of Proposed Rulemaking would examine modern satellite technology and operations to address the single-most constraining regulatory requirement on broadband satellite systems today," said Clay DeCell, FCC Space Bureau Attorney Advisor, Satellite Programs and Policy Division. "It would take a fresh look at rules dating to the 1990s, that affect satellite systems operating in the most common spectrum bands for satellite broadband.
"Specifically, the notice would ask how satellite operations have changed in the 20-plus years since these rules were adopted. How current limits affect geostationary satellites and impact the services offered by non-geostationary satellites, and whether updated or alternative sharing frameworks would promote better efficiency to the benefit of American consumers." DeCell said.
The commission voted unanimously to proceed with publication of the NPRM in the Federal Register. Comments must be submitted within 45 days after that publication.