FCC approves new processes, spectrum to support space-based communications

FCC commissioners today passed new rules that are designed to enable more satellite and other space-based endeavors by streamlining the application processes associated with such initiatives and by establishing a more predictable spectrum regime for launches.

Commissioners indicated that these two items were passed in an effort to ensure that FCC rules and processes do not hinder the booming U.S. commercial space industry, which has seen the number of annual launches increase from nine in 2015 to 79 last year and more than 100 expected this year. An item approved unanimously by the FCC is designed to streamline the agency’s approval process—applications for more than 56,000 satellites are pending today—for space-based communications.

FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel said she was reminded about the value of space-based communications during last month’s wildfire in Maui, where five young people were able to leverage satellite-direct-to-phone technology to call for help when terrestrial networks were unavailable.

“They were stuck in a sea of flames, with nowhere to go,” Rosenworcel said during the FCC meeting. “Terrestrial wireless services were knocked out, so there was no way to call 911 for help … The situation seemed helpless. But this crew of five young people survived, and they are alive today thanks to a new technology. Their phone had a new feature—the ability to connect directly to emergency personnel by bypassing ground-based communications and instead using satellite signals delivered from space.

“At 6:14 p.m., their message asking for help went out to first responders with information about their location. By 6:47 p.m., they sent a follow-up message to the dispatchers to say help had already arrived. That’s incredible.

“So, when we talked about the benefits of space-based innovation, it is easy to crow about the value of the United States leading and the value of the more than half-trillion-dollar, growing space economy. But I also think it’s important to remember that if we do this right, we are unlocking advances that have the power to make us safer in crisis and stronger in day-to-day life.”

FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr also stressed the importance of the FCC establishing rules and processes that are more appropriate for the fast-paced space industry, noting that failing to do so could create a regulatory “bottleneck” that could dampen investors’ interest in space-based communications.

“One analysis showed that, for companies seeking licenses in the U.S., the average processing time takes over two and a half years; obviously, that is slowing down an industry that is trying to accelerate,” Carr said during the meeting. “Aside from the sheer increase in the number of applications being filed, they are also more technically complexed, at the same time. So, there are more [applications] and more difficult to do, and that’s always a challenge.

“Given the time needed to build and launch satellites, the risks involved can be significant for satellite operators. We’re talking substantial capex, substantial opex, so we have to keep moving forward. I’m pleased that we are doing so today, both on the spectrum side and on the application side.”

FCC Commissioner Nathan Simington echoed this sentiment.

“I have heard time and again, specifically from U.S.-based companies, that delays in application times are forcing them to entertain licensing in other countries with more industry friendly and expeditious licensing regimes,” Simington said during the meeting.

In addition to the process item, FCC commissioners approved rules that change the spectrum-licensing approach for space launches. Historically, the FCC has approved special temporary authorities (STAs) to grant access to spectrum to support the critical launch process. Under the new rules, launch providers will be able to use more permanent spectrum in the 2200-2290 MHz band, and other spectrum bands will be explored for additional usable airwaves.

“Launch providers have relied on cramped and uncertain spectrum access authorized piecemeal by special temporary authorities,” FCC Commissioner Geoffrey Starks said during the meeting. “While that band-aid approach may once have proved adequate, it is certainly no match for the new cadence of a frothy commercial space industry where days—not weeks or months—now separate each launch, on average.

“We also stay ahead of potential growth and demand by seeking comment on ways to free up the 2630 MHz band and on ways to support the spectrum needs of emerging endeavors, like commercial crew and cargo missions.

Equally important, we establish a protectable licensing regime that will move providers away from tedious launch-by-launch authorizations, while fully protecting other federal agencies and facilitating the process of coordinating with them.”