- SpaceX scored FCC approval for its massive 15,000-satelite D2D constellation
- The agency is teeing up much more spectrum to support D2D services
- The FCC also will consider unlocking 50 megahertz in the 800 MHz cellular band for drone operations
SpaceX is getting a lot more support from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for Elon Musk's quest to more aggressively challenge the Big 3 mobile carriers in the U.S.
The FCC on Tuesday approved SpaceX’s application for its new direct-to-device (D2D) system of 15,000 satellites, which will use the spectrum SpaceX agreed to buy from EchoStar. The FCC approved the spectrum transfer earlier this year.
Currently, SpaceX is relying on about 650 satellites to provide connectivity for the T-Satellite service that it offers with T-Mobile. That also uses some of T-Mobile’s PCS spectrum.
With the new constellation of 15,000 satellites, combined with the spectrum from EchoStar, SpaceX will not need to rely on spectrum through existing mobile operators. SpaceX executives have said the new constellation will deliver 5G-like speeds and services.
“With this action, SpaceX’s planned deployments will reshape spectrum-based connectivity by improving competition, allowing more consumers more choices in more places to further the commission’s goal to ‘connect everyone, everywhere to modern communications services,’” the FCC said in its order granting the SpaceX application.
Next up: more D2D spectrum
The agency followed that up on Wednesday with proposals on its October 29 open meeting agenda that will further advance D2D, aka direct-to-cell (D2C), services.
The commission will consider a new auction of 25 megahertz of prime spectrum in the 1675-1695 MHz and 2020-2025 MHz bands, as well as new rules to promote D2D services and final rules for drone operations in the 800 MHz cellular band.
The spectrum to be voted on October 29 is another boost for D2D and satellite communications from FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, who has championed space communications through modernized FCC licensing processes and access to more spectrum for the likes of SpaceX.
Specifically, the commission will consider a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to make an additional 482 megahertz available for Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS) and look to make other regulatory changes to promote more flexible terrestrial, satellite and hybrid business arrangements and “incentivize high-quality D2D service for the benefit of consumers,” according to an FCC press release.
As for drone use in the 800 MHz band, the FCC’s proposed rules would eliminate a restriction that prevents drone operations in the 800 MHz cellular band, which primarily is licensed to AT&T and Verizon.
According to the agency, a Report and Order would unlock 50 megahertz of licensed, nationwide spectrum for drone use and promote parity with other similar flexible-use bands.
Clearly, the agency is on a roll. Just last week, the FCC voted on rules that will open up more spectrum for satellite communications – to the tune of 1,000 megahertz in the 12.7-13.25 GHz and 42-42.5 GHz bands.
Read more stories about satellites from Fierce Network:
Satellites score abundance of spectrum in FCC’s latest move
FCC eyes unlicensed spectrum for new D2D services