FCC Proposes To Streamline The Application Process For Small Satellites

The Federal Communications Commission started to streamline the application process for a category of satellites known as “small satellites.” The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking proposes a new authorization process within Part 25 of the Commission’s rules to govern satellite licensing that is tailored to small satellite operations. This new process will address current needs in this evolving industry sector, as existing Commission licensing rules and processes were not developed with these types of systems in mind. Specifically, the proposal would allow the new process to be used by satellites with certain characteristics, such as having a short on-orbit lifetime, being able to readily share spectrum with other operations, and having a mission profile that demonstrates a low risk of orbital debris. Today’s action also looks at the spectrum needs of short duration small satellites, including inviting comment on operations of small satellites in certain frequency bands currently allocated for satellite services. The NPRM also considers revising the application fee for small satellites applying under the new streamlined process.