FCC News

SpaceNews.com

High activity

Satellite companies pursue alternatives to SpaceX through launch diversification, consolidation and direct-to-device deals

Satellite operators and space startups are reassessing their exposure to SpaceX as Falcon 9’s role in the commercial market comes under scrutiny. At the same time, Rocket Lab’s proposed Iridium acquisition, spectrum-focused strategies and direct-to-device partnerships highlight intensifying competition across launch, connectivity and satellite services.

SpaceNews.com

FCC poised to reaffirm environmental-review exemption for satellite constellations, including orbital data centers

The FCC is expected to formalize its longstanding practice of excluding satellite constellations from environmental reviews as developers advance proposals for more than 1 million orbital data centers. The decision could establish a clearer regulatory baseline for large-scale commercial space infrastructure.

SpaceNews.com

House subcommittee advances bill to streamline FCC licensing of satellite systems

A House subcommittee advanced legislation aimed at speeding and simplifying Federal Communications Commission licensing for satellite systems. The measure differs from a companion Senate bill, setting up potential negotiations over how Congress will address regulatory processes affecting commercial and government space operators.

Bloomberg

SpaceX and AST SpaceMobile pursue $6 billion satellite spectrum as Muon Space raises $250 million

SpaceX and AST SpaceMobile are reportedly interested in acquiring Grain Management’s spectrum for direct-to-phone satellite services, while Muon Space raised $250 million at a $1.5 billion valuation. Muon plans to scale production to 500 satellites annually by 2027 and expand defense, NASA and NOAA work.

SpaceWatch Global

High activity

AST SpaceMobile wins temporary FCC authority to test satellite connectivity in the 800 MHz band

AST SpaceMobile has received temporary authorization from the U.S. Federal Communications Commission to test satellite connectivity using spectrum in the 800 MHz band. The approval advances the company’s effort to evaluate satellite-enabled communications in a regulated terrestrial-frequency range.

SpaceNews.com

FCC Space Bureau deputy takes the reins amid satellite licensing overhaul

Jennifer Gilsenan, deputy chief of the FCC’s Space Bureau, will lead the agency’s satellite regulatory overhaul as bureau chief Jay Schwarz prepares to retire later this month. The leadership transition comes while the FCC is working to advance changes affecting satellite licensing and oversight.

Payload

Amazon files with the FCC to launch a direct-to-device LEO constellation of more than 5,000 satellites

Amazon has filed a request with the Federal Communications Commission to operate a direct-to-device network in low Earth orbit, targeting a constellation sized at more than 5,000 satellites. The filing signals Amazon’s entry into the direct-to-device satellite communications race and escalates competitive pressure in LEO broadband.

The Air Current

Boeing, GE Aerospace join industry coalition to speed up FAA aircraft certification

Boeing, GE Aerospace and other major U.S. aviation manufacturers have formed an industry coalition working with the FAA to accelerate and modernize the aircraft certification process. Industry spokespeople say the effort is focused on streamlining certification timelines and updating how certification work is conducted.