The FCC has proposed modifying its spectrum sharing rules for non-geostationary satellite orbit, fixed-satellite service (NGSO FSS) systems. The adopted Notice of Proposed Rulemaking specifically proposes: (1) creating rules to protect NGSO FSS systems approved in early rounds of the FCC’s license application process; and (2) limiting the existing spectrum sharing mechanism for NGSO FSS systems to systems approved in the same round of processing. Finally, the FCC seeks comment on whether to sunset the interference protection for NGSO FSS systems to encourage market entry for new competitors. The Commission believes that these proposed revisions will facilitate the deployment of a new generation of low-Earth orbit satellite systems, promote competition, and make it easier for potential competitors to enter the market.
