FCC Approved New Satellite Spectrum Access

Commissioners voted 3-0 to authorize additional bandwidth for satellite operators in the United States.

Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Space

Isometric editorial illustration of a parabolic satellite antenna array against the Earth's curve, representing satellite broadband regulatory expansion. — The Federal Communications Commission voted 3-0 to authorize an additional 1,050 MHz of spectrum access for satellite operators across the United States. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should federal regulators prioritize satellite operator access to radio spectrum over other potential commercial uses?

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted 3-0 to approve a spectrum abundance order that authorizes new satellite access. The measure provides 1,050 MHz of additional spectrum for satellite operators across the country.

Why it matters

The ruling updates regulatory frameworks to better accommodate the growing demands of satellite broadband services. By incorporating industry feedback, the FCC aims to facilitate expanded connectivity while managing competing priorities for terrestrial and orbital frequency usage.

The order authorizes the use of 12.7-13.25 GHz Ku-band spectrum and establishes a V-band gateway license at 42-42.5 GHz. The FCC adopted five of seven specific changes requested by SpaceX.

The players

Federal Communications Commission

The independent U.S. government agency regulates interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable.

SpaceX

This American aerospace manufacturer and space transportation company operates the Starlink satellite internet constellation.

The details

The FCC mandate permits satellite operators to utilize the 12.7-13.25 GHz Ku-band, though GSO satellite terminals on aircraft and ships are subject to secondary status compared to NGSO downlinks. The commission also converted draft inquiries regarding Ku-, Ka- and D-band spectrum into formal proposals that could eventually open Iridium feeder-link spectrum to other broadband providers.

SpaceX requested seven specific modifications to the draft order on September 21, 2026.
FCC commissioners cast their 3-0 vote to approve the final order on September 30, 2026.

The Big Picture

This order represents a shift in the FCC's spectrum management regulatory framework by prioritizing satellite connectivity in high-frequency bands. The decision signals a move away from strictly terrestrial-focused licensing as the demand for orbital broadband infrastructure accelerates.

Expanded satellite spectrum access could lead to improved broadband speeds and coverage reliability for satellite internet users across the country. These changes may eventually influence how consumers connect via satellite-equipped aircraft and maritime vessels.

The takeaway

The regulatory update reflects the increasing need for high-frequency bandwidth to support next-generation satellite communications. Stakeholders should monitor future FCC proceedings regarding the proposed expansion of broadband access into Iridium feeder-link spectrum.