Via Satellite
• Rachel Jewett
The Federal Communications Commission launched a proceeding to modernize spectrum-sharing rules for direct-to-device services and proposed auctioning 25 MHz of mid-band spectrum. The actions could shape the regulatory and spectrum environment for satellite-to-phone connectivity, though the commission has not yet finalized either change.
FCC
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The Federal Communications Commission launched a proceeding to modernize spectrum-sharing rules for direct-to-device services and proposed auctioning 25 MHz of mid-band spectrum. The actions could shape the regulatory and spectrum environment for satellite-to-phone connectivity, though the commission has not yet finalized either change.
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The Federal Communications Commission approved Amazon’s purchase of U.S. satellite operator Globalstar, clearing a key regulatory hurdle for Amazon Leo’s communications network. The deal is valued at about $11.5 billion and is intended to accelerate Amazon’s entry into direct-to-device connectivity as it builds a network to compete with SpaceX’s Starlink.
The Federal Communications Commission has approved Amazon Leo’s $11.57 billion deal to acquire Globalstar. The decision marks a regulatory milestone for the transaction, bringing the satellite businesses under a proposed combination with a value of more than $11.5 billion.
The Federal Communications Commission has authorized Globalstar to operate its third-generation C-3 constellation in mobile satellite services spectrum. The system is intended to provide direct-to-device connectivity for smartphones, advancing Globalstar’s satellite service plans under the regulatory authority granted by the FCC.
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The FCC approved SpaceX’s plan for a 15,000-satellite Starlink Mobile system and granted spectrum flexibility for satellite-to-phone services. The decision moves the service closer to operating as a standalone wireless offering, with potential to reshape how satellite connectivity reaches mobile devices.
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The FCC authorized SpaceX to deploy 15,000 satellites for direct-to-device service, while deferring some elements of its request. The agency also announced plans to make more wireless spectrum available and is set to vote on auctioning 25 MHz that could benefit SpaceX and Amazon.
The FCC advanced its deregulation agenda with two decisions: exempting certain space activities from federal environmental regulations and making 1,000 megahertz of spectrum available. The actions could reduce regulatory requirements for affected space activities while expanding access to communications capacity.
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The Government Accountability Office says vulnerabilities in national airspace communications could allow spoofing and urges the FAA to strengthen its cybersecurity posture. The agency issued nine recommendations, underscoring risks to systems that support air traffic management and the resilience of U.S. aviation infrastructure.
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