FCC Unlocks Airwaves for Bizarre Non-Satellite Space Contraptions
Published Date: 4/9/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The FCC wants to open up more radio spectrum for new space gadgets that aren’t your usual satellites. This means companies controlling or talking to these weird space crafts will get easier and clearer access to the signals they need. If you’re involved, get ready to comment by May 11, 2026, and possibly lease spectrum to help these space operations take off!
Analyzed Economic Effects
7 provisions identified: 5 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.
Secondary SOS Allocation in 2320-2345 MHz
The FCC proposes adding a secondary Space Operation Service (SOS) Earth-to-space allocation in the 2320-2345 MHz band (a 25 megahertz band) and proposes permitting the existing exclusive licensee in that band, SiriusXM, to lease portions of its spectrum to earth station licensees for command of spacecraft that do not provide radiocommunication services to the public.
Authorize De Facto Spectrum Leasing Framework
The FCC proposes allowing existing Commission licensees to make their spectrum available in ways not currently permitted, including leasing spectrum to earth station licensees to provide SOS for emergent spacecraft, and seeks comment on extending this leasing framework to other frequency bands.
FCC Goal: At Least 25 MHz for Emergent Use
The FCC states its objective to increase non-Federal spectrum available to support emergent space operations from effectively zero today to at least 25 megahertz of such spectrum, and potentially more if the NPRM proposals are adopted.
Codifying Frequency 'Piggybacking' Use
The FCC proposes to codify frequency "piggybacking," allowing a space station to use the same frequencies as a consenting client spacecraft when the applicant certifies the operation is for servicing, monitoring, or collaborating with that client and conforms with the client's ITU filings and licensed frequency parameters.
Allow TT&C in FSS Bands on Unprotected Basis
The FCC seeks comment on permitting telemetry, tracking, and command (TT&C) for emergent space operations to operate in fixed-satellite service (FSS) bands on an unprotected, non-interference basis, subject to coordination with other authorized spectrum users.
Broader TT&C Definition to Include Data Downlinks
The FCC proposes interpreting or possibly revising TT&C definitions to include downlinks of video and other data during maneuvers like rendezvous, proximity operations (RPO), or docking, and seeks comment on whether to modify the rule text or add footnotes to the United States Table.
Use of Licensed Satellites/Intersatellite Links for TT&C
The FCC seeks comment on authorizing licensed satellite operators to use their FCC-licensed satellites and intersatellite links to provide telemetry, tracking, and command (TT&C) and data downlinks to support emergent space operations.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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