FCC clears more upper C-band for a 5G auction and overhauls satellite licensing with an “assembly line” approach
The FCC voted July 22 to approve another C-band auction next year, requiring satellite operators to clear 160 MHz of upper C-band spectrum, while also adopting sweeping reforms to space and earth-station licensing via a “licensing assembly line.” In parallel, the FAA will require radio altimeter upgrades ahead of expanded C-band wireless services starting in 2030.