FCC Looks to Unleash More than 20,000 Megahertz for Satellite Spectrum Abundance

The Federal Communications Commission voted to kickstart a proceeding that could unlock more than 20,000 megahertz of spectrum for high-speed internet delivered from space.  That amount is more than the sum total of all spectrum available for satellite broadband today. Specifically, in a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the FCC seeks public comment on expanding satellite connectivity across four spectrum bands: 12.7-13.25 GHz, 42.0-42.5 GHz, 51.4-52.4 GHz, and the so-called “W-band” at 92.0-94.0 GHz, 94.1-100 GHz, 102.0-109.5 GHz, and 111.8-114.25 GHz. These underused bands—located in “spectrum neighborhoods” ideal for satellite broadband— are prime candidates for modernization.  For many years, outdated regulations restricted satellite operations in the 12.7 GHz band.  The 42 GHz band is one of the rare bands that still remains greenfield.  The 52 GHz band has no licensed commercial users.  And the W-band presents exciting opportunities for gigabit capacity over a massive, but mostly empty, swath of spectrum long considered outside the practical realm of physics.