FCC Adopts Guidance on Orbital Debris Mitigation Rules

The Federal Communications Commission adopted an Order on Reconsideration addressing petitions regarding the Commission’s orbital debris mitigation rules. One of the biggest threats to new space-based innovation and services is abandoned space junk that can collide with the satellites we rely on. The Order on Reconsideration provides clarity and guidance to satellite operators on compliance with orbital debris mitigation policies adopted in 2020. Among the clarifications provided by the Commission, the Order addresses questions related to satellite maneuverability disclosure requirements and the use of “free-flying” deployment devices. Additionally, the Order provides guidance for satellite operators on methods for conducting a re-contact risk analysis, and clarifies the applicability of the 0.99 disposal reliability goal for large satellite systems. This action is a further step in the Commission’s efforts to preserve the space environment for continued investment, deployment and innovation in space-based services.