• June 4, 2025

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The Federal Communications Commission voted to explore ways that the 12.7-13.25 GHz and 42.0-42.5 GHz bands could be used more intensively by satellite communications, as an alternative or a complement to the previous proposals for terrestrial wireless communications in these bands. Officials said the proceeding would unlock more than 20,000 MHz of spectrum for high-speed internet delivered from space. They noted that the amount is more than the collective total of all spectrum available for satellite broadband today.

Specifically, in a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, the Commission will seek comment on expanding satellite connectivity across four spectrum bands: 12.7-13.25 GHz, 42.0-42.5 GHz, 51.4-52.4 GHz, and the so-called “W-band” at 92.0-94.0 GHz, 94.1-100 GHz, 102.0-109.5 GHz, and 111.8-114.25 GHz. Officials said these bands are underused, and “prime candidates for modernization.”

For many years, outdated regulations restricted satellite operations in the 12.7 GHz band. The 42 GHz band is one of the rare bands that remains greenfield. The 52 GHz band has no licensed commercial users. And the W-band presents exciting opportunities for gigabit capacity over a massive, but mostly empty, swath of spectrum long considered outside the practical realm of physics. The 12.7 and 42 GHz bands, which the Commission previously considered for terrestrial use, are adjacent to “workhorse” satellite frequencies in the Ku- and V- bands.

“To be clear, abundant spectrum for satellite operations is not just nice to have. It is necessary for American leadership,” said FCC Chair Brendan Carr. “Every megahertz matters. Our global competitors are not waiting. China is rapidly expanding its space capabilities. We are not going to let America fall behind. In this rulemaking, we’re sending a clear signal: America is committed to space leadership through a policy of satellite spectrum abundance. Abundance positions us to lead international discussions, not follow frameworks established by others.”

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Sources:

https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DOC-411583A1.pdf

https://docs.fcc.gov/public/attachments/DOC-411583A2.pdf