FCC Seeks Public Input to Unlock Abundant Satellite Frequency Bands
Published Date: 6/27/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FCC wants to hear your ideas on using certain satellite frequency bands better and opening up new ones for satellite communications. This affects satellite companies and anyone who relies on satellite tech, aiming to boost speed and capacity soon. Changes could mean faster connections and new services, with decisions and possible rules coming in the near future.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
More Intensive Use of 12.7–13.25 & 42.0–42.5 GHz
The FCC is asking for comments on ways to use the 12.7–13.25 GHz and 42.0–42.5 GHz frequency bands more efficiently and intensively for satellite communications. If rules change, satellite companies could gain more spectrum capacity to support expanded service offerings.
Proposals to Open 51.4–52.4 GHz and W‑Band Frequencies
The FCC seeks comment on proposals to make the 51.4–52.4 GHz band and W‑band ranges (92.0–94.0 GHz, 94.1–100 GHz, 102.0–109.5 GHz, and 111.8–114.25 GHz) available for satellite communications. If adopted, satellite providers could obtain new spectrum resources to expand services.
Potential Faster Connections from 12.7–13.25 & 42.0–42.5 GHz
The FCC is considering changes to how the 12.7–13.25 GHz and 42.0–42.5 GHz bands are used for satellites. Those changes could mean faster connections and new services for people and businesses that rely on satellite technology.
New W‑Band Spectrum Could Enable New Services
The FCC is considering making W‑band frequencies (92.0–94.0 GHz; 94.1–100 GHz; 102.0–109.5 GHz; 111.8–114.25 GHz) and 51.4–52.4 GHz available for satellites. These additional spectrum resources could allow new satellite services that benefit people and businesses using satellite technology.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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