SpaceX is advocating for the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to update what it describes as “out-of-date” satellite rules to enhance the speed and coverage of its Starlink internet service. The company argues that these regulations, established by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in 2000, have not kept pace with advancements in satellite technology.
The current guidelines, which the FCC still relies upon for licensing, pertain to the energy that today’s low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites can transmit to and from ground equipment. SpaceX contends that revising these limits, known as the equivalent power flux density (EPFD), could potentially increase satellite capacity by up to eight times.
SpaceX highlights that these EPFD limits are “overprotective” and have imposed significant constraints and costs on next-generation satellite systems. The company asserts that the existing rules were designed for 1990s technology and are obstructing innovation in contemporary satellite systems. “Overprotective EPFD limits have imposed wide-ranging constraints and costs on virtually all aspects of next-generation satellite systems, from system design and service quality to competition and coordination,” SpaceX stated.
The company is urging the FCC to initiate its own rule-making process to relax these EPFD limits rather than waiting for the ITU to act. According to SpaceX, the current rules protect radio spectrum access for older geostationary satellites but do so at the expense of LEO satellites like Starlink. This protection reduces signal quality on the ground and necessitates that LEO satellites implement “avoidance angles” to prevent signal interference with geostationary satellites.
SpaceX argues that updating these rules will not undermine geostationary satellites but will ensure they are adequately protected while allowing NGSO (non-geostationary orbit) systems to provide better services to American consumers. “The time has come to unleash the power of next-generation satellite systems to connect the American people in every corner of the country by revising antiquated power restrictions to match the modern space age,” SpaceX declared.
The FCC itself acknowledges the need for updated regulations, according to SpaceX’s letter. However, any proposed changes could encounter opposition from rival satellite companies, which may argue that altering the EPFD limits could cause radio interference.
Despite potential pushback, SpaceX remains steadfast in its mission. “The revisions would increase satellite coverage and service quality, ensuring that all Americans can enjoy high-speed, low-latency broadband,” the company stated.
As SpaceX continues its campaign for regulatory change, it emphasizes that modernizing these rules is critical for advancing satellite technology and improving internet access across the United States.