Satellites Get New Rules for Sharing Broadband Airwaves
Published Date: 11/5/2026
Rule
Summary
The FCC is updating the rules for how geostationary satellites share the airwaves to make sure satellite internet works better and more fairly. These changes affect satellite companies and will take effect on December 7, 2026. No extra paperwork or big costs are expected, just smoother satellite broadband for everyone.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Updated GSO Dataset May Limit NGSO Service
The FCC adopted an updated set of geostationary (GSO) reference links that NGSO (non-geostationary) systems must protect. The document says that "the services available to consumers across the United States from fast-growing NGSO systems will be limited by the NGSO operational parameters necessary to protect the most sensitive link in the GSO reference link dataset." This rule is effective December 7, 2026.
Non-ACM User Links C/N Cap Set at 9.5 dB
The Commission revised the reference link dataset to adopt a 9.5 dB maximum unavailability carrier-to-noise (C/N) threshold for modern, typical non-ACM user terminal links. The order notes some older links had C/N up to 18 dB and that some operators had proposed higher values, but the Bureau set 9.5 dB as the reasonable upper bound to be used in the dataset.
NGSO Compliance and Future Adjustment Duty
NGSO applicants must either certify they completed coordination with co-frequency GSO networks or submit compatibility showings that use the GSO reference links; NGSO operational parameters must protect the most sensitive reference link everywhere in the United States. The Bureau also warns that operating NGSO systems may be required to adjust their operations to protect any new GSO reference links added in the future.
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