FCC Takes Action That Brings Thousands of Megahertz of Spectrum into the Marketplace

The Federal Communications Commission adopted rules that will open up additional spectrum for next-generation connectivity. The FCC will unlock more than 1,000 megahertz of spectrum in the 12 GHz and 42 GHz bands for a range of connectivity services, including even faster satellite broadband. In addition to these final rules, in a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission explores freeing up 1,450 megahertz of spectrum in the Ku- and Ka- bands, along with 138.25 gigahertz in the D-band, for more intensive satellite communications. And lastly, in a second Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission adds to the list of spectrum bands under consideration for “weird space stuff.” This follows the Commission’s first-of-its-kind proceeding to bring spectrum abundance for missions like in-orbit servicing, refueling, manufacturing, or operations on or around the Moon—that is, next-generation space missions that do not provide connectivity to the public. This Further Notice would build on the foundation by considering new spectrum bands to control spacecraft and transmit data for emergent space ops.