FCC Seeks Input on New Frequencies for Moving Satellite Connections
Published Date: 12/22/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FCC’s Space Bureau wants to update rules so more frequency bands can be used by satellites that move around Earth to talk with moving ground stations, like those on planes or ships. This affects satellite companies and anyone using satellite internet on the go. Comments on these changes are due by January 21, 2026, so get ready to weigh in!
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 3 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
FCC Seeks Permission to Open 28.35–28.6 GHz
The FCC Space Bureau is asking to refresh the record on proposed rules to permit non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) Fixed Satellite Service satellites to communicate with Earth Stations in Motion (ESIMs) in the 28.35–28.6 GHz band. Interested parties, including satellite companies, may submit updated comments by January 21, 2026 and reply comments by February 5, 2026.
Mobile Satellite Internet Users May Be Affected
The Space Bureau's refresh seeks updated information about ESIM use in the 28.35–28.6 GHz band; this affects people using satellite internet on the move (for example, on planes or ships). Stakeholders are invited to update the record and file comments by January 21, 2026.
Adjacent-Band Interference Concerns Raised
The FCC is seeking updated information about out-of-band emissions and whether NGSO ESIM operations above 28.35 GHz would interfere with Upper Microwave Flexible Use Service (UMFUS) receivers below 28.35 GHz in the 27.5–28.35 GHz band. Verizon and others have raised concerns about potential interference and harmonizing emission limits.
Small Entities Invited to Comment on Impacts
The notice invites parties to file comments on the Initial Regulatory Flexibility Analysis (IRFA) about potential impacts on small entities and to update the record; comments are due January 21, 2026 and reply comments by February 5, 2026.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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