The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) seeks to add a space-to-Earth allocation in the 17.3-17.8 GHz band for the geostationary satellite orbit fixed-satellite service (“GSO FSS”) and modify the frequency range, application processing, and earth station power limits for “Extended Ka-Band” operations. These changes will diversify and expedite the availability of satellite-based connectivity options for American consumers.
On November 18, 2020, the FCC adopted a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to expand spectrum availability and streamline the earth station licensing process for GSO FSS operators. The NPRM proposes to –
- Add a GSO FSS space-to-Earth allocation in the frequency bands 17.3-17.7 GHz (primary) and 17.7-17.8 GHz (non-protected basis with respect to the fixed service) and revise the technical rules for these bands to limit harmful interference from GSO FSS to co-frequency broadcasting-satellite and direct broadcast satellite services.
- Redefine the Extended Ka-Band as the 17.3-18.3 GHz (space-to-Earth), 18.8-19.4 GHz (space-to-Earth), 19.6-19.7 GHz (space-to-Earth), 27.5-28.35 GHz (Earth-to-space), and 28.6-29.1 GHz (Earth-to-space) bands.
- Implement routine licensing for earth station operators employing Extended Ka-Band frequencies. To facilitate this process, the FCC will also consider applying the uplink power limits for the conventional Ka-band frequencies, 47 C.F.R. § 25.218(i), to the Extended Ka-band frequencies.
Next steps
On February 1, 2021, the FCC announced that initial comments on the rules will be due on March 3, 2021 and reply comments on March 18, 2021. The comment period offers an opportunity to shape the record the FCC will consider as it finalizes the rule.
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