FCC chair explores space regulation integrating satellite and terrestrial networks

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) chair Jessica Rosenworcel outlined a plan to integrate satellite and terrestrial networks during a session this week at MWC23 Barcelona by proposing a new regulatory framework.
FCC chair explores space regulation integrating satellite and terrestrial networks
Image Source: FCC and MWC23

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) chair Jessica Rosenworcel outlined a plan to integrate satellite and terrestrial networks during a session this week at MWC23 Barcelona by proposing a new regulatory framework.


Through the FCC’s Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM), satellite operators collaborating with terrestrial service providers would need to obtain authorization to operate space stations on a currently licensed, flexible-use spectrum that are allocated to terrestrial services.

The FCC seeks to expand coverage to a terrestrial licensee’s subscribers, which would also increase the availability of emergency communications, according to the NPRM.

“By providing clear rules, I believe we can kick start more innovation in the space economy while also expanding wireless coverage in remote, unserved, and underserved areas.  We can make mobile dead zones a thing of the past,” she said in the Leadership for Future Connectivity session. “But even better, we have an opportunity to bring our spectrum policies into the future and think about how we move past the binary choices between mobile spectrum or satellite spectrum.”

Rosenworcel stated the NPRM was designed to facilitate more collaboration between terrestrial mobile network operators and satellite service providers and that she believed it was the “first effort of its kind anywhere in the world.”

The NPRM also included mobile-satellite service allocation to a class of terrestrial flexible-use bands that have no primary, federal, or non-federal satellite allocations, which would permit satellites to provide Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS) to terrestrial networks.

“What is clear is that with the growing interest in the possibilities of convergence of satellite and terrestrial services, an ad-hoc, case-by-case approach to these new ventures is not enough,” she added.

 


Recent Content

As utilities expand private LTE and 5G networks, strong partner ecosystems and managed services help balance performance, compliance, and cost. Explore how orchestration, governance frameworks, and co-managed models enable utilities to scale smarter and faster.
As utility private networks scale beyond pilot deployments, success depends on more than connectivity. This blog explores how utilities are applying orchestration frameworks, secure governance models, and lifecycle management strategies to build scalable, resilient, and future-ready private LTE and 5G infrastructures, ensuring long-term performance, compliance, and adaptability.
Utilities are unlocking real-time intelligence and predictive maintenance by combining edge computing and AI with private LTE/5G networks. This blog explores how utilities process critical data locally to automate decisions, detect anomalies, optimize asset performance, and improve operational resilience—laying the foundation for the autonomous grid.
Utilities are implementing private LTE and 5G networks across diverse environments—from turbine halls and substations to national grid systems. This blog outlines the key deployment architectures (site-specific, regional, wide-area, and indoor) and spectrum strategies utilities are using to deliver secure, scalable, and purpose-built connectivity for modern energy operations.
The shift to private LTE and 5G in utilities is being driven by a convergence of urgent trends, from climate mandates and cyber threats to legacy infrastructure and labor shortages. This blog explores six key forces accelerating private network adoption and highlights why resilient, intelligent, and secure communications have become essential to utility transformation.
Private LTE and 5G networks are transforming how utilities operate by enabling a wide range of mission-critical and emerging applications. From AMI and substation automation to drone inspections and edge AI, this post outlines 12 strategic use cases that demonstrate why utilities are investing in private cellular infrastructure to improve safety, performance, and operational agility across the grid.
Whitepaper
Explore RADCOM's whitepaper 'Unleashing the Power of 5G Analytics' to understand how telecom operators can drive cost savings and revenue with 5G. Learn about NWDAF's role in network efficiency, innovative use cases, and analytics monetization strategies. Download now for key insights into optimizing 5G network performance....
Radcom Logo

It seems we can't find what you're looking for.

Download Magazine

With Subscription

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Scroll to Top

Private Network Readiness Assessment

Run your readiness check now — for enterprises, operators, OEMs & SIs planning and delivering Private 5G solutions with confidence.