The Federal Communications Commission has approved new rules for satellite spectrum-sharing to increase capacity for space-based broadband services and improve user performance, particularly in underserved areas.
The order replaces a decades-old regulatory framework that had limited the operation of non-geostationary orbit, or NGSO, satellite systems, aligning policy with advances in satellite technology and growing market dem cnbhand, FCC said Thursday.
Table of Contents
Why Did the FCC Change the Satellite Spectrum-Sharing Rules?
The Equivalent Power Flux Density, or EPFD, established in the 1990s prevented interference with geostationary orbit, or GSO, satellites; however, those limits were based on earlier-generation system designs and no longer reflect the capabilities of modern satellite constellations.
“Technological advances now allow NGSO systems to use shared spectrum far more efficiently and to mitigate interference in ways that were not possible when EPFD limits were first implemented,” said FCC Commissioner Olivia Trusty.
The legacy framework had effectively capped performance for low Earth orbit systems, restricting coverage, signal quality and overall capacity.
The new approach introduces performance-based protection criteria and builds on a framework for good-faith coordination, allowing GSO and NGSO operators to negotiate interference protections through voluntary agreements.
What Does the Update Mean for Satellite Broadband?
The changes could significantly expand satellite broadband network capacity, potentially increasing it several times over, while also lowering costs and improving reliability.
The move is expected to benefit consumers and businesses that rely on satellite connectivity, particularly in rural and remote areas where terrestrial infrastructure remains limited. It also positions satellite providers to compete more directly with cable and wireless broadband services.
“Wireless carriers are now competing for in-home subscribers. Cable companies are competing for wireless customers. And satellite is competing with both cable and wireless. Today’s FCC decision will help supercharge that competition while expanding our country’s technological leadership,” said FCC Chairman Brendan Carr.
How Does the Rule Advance FCC Spectrum Policy?
The rule change follows the FCC’s 2025 review of satellite spectrum-sharing regulations, specifically targeting the EPFD framework. It examined power restrictions in the Ku- and Ka-band frequencies and their impact on coverage, capacity and signal quality for next-generation satellite broadband.
The update aligns with the commission’s effort to expand spectrum access for emerging space capabilities. FCC leadership recently proposed to make additional spectrum available for next-generation space assets and operations.
Related Articles
U.S. Space Command has taken operational control of a facility at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama. Attend the 2026 Air and Space Summit on July 30 and join military leaders and industry executives as they examine topics such as cross-domain operations, secure data integration, commercial space capabilities and the pace of military technology advancement. Reserve your spot now! During a ribbon-cutting ceremony held on Wednesday, Gen. Stephen Whiting, commander of USSPACECOM, said the facility will house the first operational element of the command’s headquarters as part of its ongoing transition from Colorado Springs, Colorado, to Huntsville. “This facility represents a
The intelligence and cybersecurity agencies of the U.S., Australia, Canada, New Zealand and the U.K. have released new guidance on securing agentic artificial intelligence systems used in critical infrastructure and defense environments. The latest guidance highlights the growing cybersecurity risks tied to agentic AI. As agencies emphasize governance, oversight and continuous risk assessment, these priorities are expected to shape ongoing discussions across the defense and critical infrastructure sectors. Save your seat now for the 2026 Cyber Summit, which will explore the role of AI in cyber defense, post-quantum cryptography, zero trust and other cyber priorities. What Are the Security Risks of
The Department of Energy and the National Reactor Innovation Center have opened applications for the Nuclear Energy Launch Pad, signaling an effort to accelerate private sector deployment of advanced nuclear technologies through streamlined federal pathways. The request for applications, posted on SAM.gov, builds on 2025 pilot programs to reduce regulatory friction and move technologies more quickly from development to demonstration and eventual commercialization, Idaho National Laboratory said Friday. Government and industry leaders at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2026 FedCiv Summit on Oct. 29 will provide insight into how federal agencies are advancing priority initiatives and shaping procurement strategies. Register now!