FCC Adopts Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for Satellite Service

Following is a news release from the FCC concerning a notice of Proposed Rulemaking for new satellite service.

COMMISSION PROPOSES RULES FOR

NEW BROADCASTING SATELLITE SERVICE

            

Washington

,

DC

— Today, the Commission adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) seeking comment on licensing and service rules for satellites authorized to provide service to the

United States

in the 17/24 GHz Broadcasting Satellite Service (BSS).  The 17/24 GHz BSS satellites will downlink domestically in the 17.3-17.7 GHz frequency band and uplink in the 24.75-25.25 GHz frequency band.   The 17/24 GHz BSS service holds the potential of bringing a new generation of innovative satellite services to American consumers – providing a mix of video, audio, data and multimedia services to residential and business subscribers.   

            The NPRM seeks comment on proposals related to operations in the 17/24 GHz BSS band, including: (1) the appropriate method for processing applications; (2) license terms, replacement satellites, access to the U.S. market from non-U.S. satellites, and milestone requirements; (3) pubic service obligations, geographic service and emergency alert system (EAS) requirements; (4) use of spectrum allocated internationally, but not domestically, by receiving earth stations located outside the United States; (5) orbital spacing and antenna performance standards; (6) inter- and intra-service sharing; and (7) other technical requirements, such as reverse band operations.

            Action by the Commission June 21, 2006, by Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 06-90).   Chairman Martin, Commissioners Copps, Adelstein, Tate, and McDowell.

International Bureau Staff Contact: Richard Engelman at 202-418-2157, Richard.Engelman@fcc.gov.