FCC Proposes Rules to Facilitate Satellite Broadband Competition

By Leslie Stimson, Inside Towers Washington Bureau Chief

The FCC is receiving more satellite broadband applications than ever before. It also wants to make it easier to deploy a new generation of low-Earth orbit satellite systems. That’s why the agency voted 4-0 Tuesday to update its rules for spectrum-sharing among non-geostationary satellite orbit, fixed-satellite service (NGSO FSS) systems. The new generation low-Earth orbit satellite systems can provide broadband services with higher speeds and lower latency than previous satellite broadband offerings, according to the agency. When considering license applications for NGSO FSS satellite constellations, the FCC International Bureau initiates processing rounds during which applications are considered together on an equal basis. The new proposal would establish rules to protect systems approved in earlier rounds while facilitating greater competition. Continue Reading