The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is expected to vote later this month on a package of regulatory reforms designed to streamline the satellite licensing process and support the growth of the commercial space industry.
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FCC Chairman Brendan Carr announced that the commission plans to consider the proposed Space Modernization Order during its meeting on July 22.
Proposal Seeks Faster Licensing Process
If approved, the order would introduce a series of changes intended to improve the efficiency and predictability of satellite licensing.
Among the proposed measures is the creation of a “licensing assembly line” aimed at accelerating the review of satellite and Earth station applications.
The proposal would also simplify licensing requirements and shorten processing times, giving satellite operators greater certainty as they develop and deploy new systems.
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In addition, the FCC plans to require satellite operators to share space situational awareness (SSA) data to help improve safety and coordination in Earth’s orbit.
Carr said the regulatory framework will play a key role in the future competitiveness of the U.S. space industry.
“Getting the regulatory framework right will determine if America wins this Space Race 2.0. That is why the agency started a process last year to fundamentally change how we process satellite and Earth station operations.”
Industry Welcomes Proposed Changes
The proposed reforms have received early support from industry representatives.
Tom Stroup, President of the Satellite Industry Association, said the organization welcomed the FCC’s efforts to modernize the licensing framework.
“The new rules should expedite application processing and provide more predictability for companies, all to the benefit of the satellite community and our broad base of customers,” Stroup said.
The FCC said the Space Modernization Order is part of a broader effort to update regulations governing commercial space activities.
Beyond the July vote, the agency also plans to seek industry feedback on additional reforms, including the possible creation of a regulatory pathway that would allow companies to develop and test experimental technologies in orbit without first obtaining a commercial operating license.
