Viasat Petitions FCC to Deny AST SpaceMobile Request
Viasat alleges that the proposed satellite spectrum expansion poses significant interference risks to existing services.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Telecommunications
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Viasat filed a formal petition with the FCC on Monday to challenge an application from AST SpaceMobile for additional spectrum. The company claims the request is flawed and could disrupt established mobile-satellite services.
Why it matters
The dispute centers on spectrum access necessary for AST SpaceMobile to extend its connectivity coverage, which Viasat argues is impossible without causing harmful interference to existing operations. This regulatory battle highlights the competitive tension over limited frequency bands.
AST SpaceMobile's system aims to support a 248-satellite constellation while proposing to manage interference through beam shaping and power adjustments. Viasat argues the company lacks necessary waivers to operate outside defined supplemental coverage bands.
The players
Viasat
This is a global communications company that provides satellite-based internet services to consumers and businesses.
AST SpaceMobile
This is a satellite company building a space-based cellular broadband network for mobile phones.
Federal Communications Commission
This is the independent United States government agency responsible for regulating interstate and international communications.
The details
Viasat contends that the requested frequencies overlap with its own services, asserting that AST SpaceMobile failed to secure required waivers for operations. AST SpaceMobile currently seeks this additional spectrum to expand its network capacity and improve overall connectivity.
Timeline
July 2026: AST SpaceMobile submitted its application for additional spectrum.
September 2026: The application was accepted for filing.
Monday, October 19, 2026: Viasat filed its petition with the FCC.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026: ASTS stock declined 2% following the news.
The Tech Race
This dispute reflects the intensifying competition for orbital and frequency resources as companies race to deploy low-earth orbit constellations. It pits incumbent operators against new satellite network providers in a battle to define regulatory boundaries for space-based cellular services.
This regulatory conflict may influence the speed and availability of space-based cellular coverage for future mobile users. Investors should also note that the ongoing legal challenges and market volatility have contributed to a 42% decline in ASTS stock year-to-date.
The takeaway
Disputes over spectrum allocation are becoming increasingly common as more companies launch satellite constellations to compete with terrestrial networks. Investors and users should monitor the FCC process, as final rulings will determine the operational viability of next-generation satellite systems.
Further reading
For broader context on the industry, visit the Telecommunications section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Asianet News Network Pvt Ltd.
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