FCC Chairwoman Looks to Allocate More Spectrum for Space Launch

FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel has proposed allocating more spectrum for space launch communication. The proposal announced on Dec. 19 would reallocate the 2360–2395 MHz band on a secondary basis for space operations. Rosenworcel said this will provide “certainty and predictability” for commercial launches. 

According to the release, “these rules would add spectrum to support space launch activities and build upon commission action in 2023 that will enable companies to conduct launch activities without needing to request temporary authority from the FCC for each space launch.” 

Rosenworcel has asked her fellow commissioners to vote on the proposal prior to Dec. 25, which is a statutory deadline set in the Launch Communications Act. 

“We are living in a New Space Age with more frequent and lower cost launches creating all kinds of innovative opportunities for space technology,” Rosenworcel said. “By identifying more bandwidth for vital links to launch vehicles, we are making it simpler for new competitors to get consistent access to the spectrum they need. 

The FCC already increased the spectrum allocation for launches in recent years as the pace of commercial launch increases, with an action in 2023. 

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