Tag: telecommunications
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FCC Sees More Than $100 Billion From Spectrum Auctions Through 2028
Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr said September 16 that a series of U.S. spectrum auctions planned over the next two years could generate more than $100 billion, as the agency prepares to release additional frequencies for terrestrial wireless networks, space-based broadband and future 6G services. The estimate covers a multi-year auction program beginning with…
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Ku, Ka and Q/V Bands in Satellite Internet: What Are They, and Why Are Different Bands Used?
A ship is at sea. A phone connects to the vessel’s satellite terminal, and a webpage image finally appears. The image first travels from the terrestrial internet to a gateway, passes through a satellite and then reaches the ship. Following this transmission path helps explain why Ku, Ka, Q and V bands perform different roles.…
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UAE Grants Starlink 10-Year Licence as Initial Network Capacity Sells Out
The United Arab Emirates has granted Starlink regulatory approval to operate a public satellite communications network and provide broadband services nationwide, although the company’s consumer ordering system indicates that available capacity has already been allocated. The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority announced the 10-year General Space Services Licence on August 28, 2026. It authorizes…
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How Many Licenses Does a Chinese Satellite Company Need to Operate a Constellation?
A company can manufacture satellites, launch them, and even complete the initial deployment of a constellation. But charging customers for services still requires regulatory approval. A rocket launch solves the problem of getting into space; legally providing services through a constellation involves an entirely different regulatory chain. On August 20, 2026, China’s Ministry of Industry…
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Starlink Reapplies for India Approval of Nearly 30,000 Gen 2 Satellites With Direct-to-Device Capability
Starlink has renewed its push to expand in India, submitting a fresh application to the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) for authorization of nearly 30,000 second-generation satellites in low Earth orbit. The proposed Gen 2 network would add newer capabilities, including direct-to-device (D2D) connectivity, potentially allowing compatible mobile phones and other devices…
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EchoStar Subsidiaries File Chapter 11 to Restructure $10 Billion in Debt
EchoStar Corporation announced that its primary pay-TV broadcasting subsidiary, DISH DBS Corporation, along with certain wireless subsidiaries, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection as part of a prepackaged restructuring designed to address approximately US$10 billion in debt. The cases were filed on June 30, 2026, in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District…
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Telefónica Germany and OQ Technology Test Direct-to-Device Satellite Connectivity
Telefónica Germany has partnered with Luxembourg-based satellite operator OQ Technology to test direct-to-device (D2D) satellite communications, marking a step toward integrating satellite connectivity with conventional mobile networks. The companies are conducting trials in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, Germany, using Telefónica Deutschland’s frequency spectrum to evaluate two-way text messaging and voice communication directly between satellites and standard mobile…
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Eutelsat Signs Maritime Connectivity Agreement With Tototheo Global
Eutelsat has signed a new agreement with Cyprus-based connectivity provider Tototheo Global to expand the availability of its low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite services across maritime, enterprise and government markets. Under the partnership, Tototheo Global will deliver Eutelsat’s OneWeb LEO connectivity services to maritime customers worldwide and support enterprise, civil government and military connectivity requirements in…
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NASA Seeks Industry Partners for Mars Telecommunications Network RFP
What does NASA’s Mars telecommunications network RFP mean for commercial space? NASA issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) on Thursday for industry partners to develop the Mars Telecommunications Network, marking a significant shift toward commercial partnerships for deep space communications infrastructure. The network will deploy high-performance Mars telecommunications orbiters at the Red Planet to provide…
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Arianespace launches three spacecraft, Intelsat talks satellite refresh efforts
Arianespace has successfully lifted three satellites into geostationary transfer orbit (GTO) on Tuesday from the Guiana Space Centre in Kourou, French Guiana using the veteran Ariane 5 launcher. Liftoff occurred at the opening of a 106-minute long window that extends from 20:30-22:16 UTC. The mission delivered an advanced European meteorological satellite and two Galaxy telecommunications…