Modernizing Spectrum Sharing for Satellite Broadband
In this document, the Federal Communications Commission (Commission or we) adopts a Report and Order (Order) that revises the spectrum sharing framework for Geostationary Orbit (GSO) and Non- Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) systems that currently relies on NGSO systems complying with Equivalent Power Flux Density (EPFD) limits developed in the late-1990s. The consequence today of applying such EPFD limits in the United States is that operators must overprotect GSO systems, which in turn means that American households and businesses-- most critically in rural and remote areas--do not receive the fastest space-based NGSO satellite broadband American innovation has available. Based on the technical record in this proceeding, the Order replaces the EPFD framework with modern, performance-based GSO protection criteria. The Order extends the Commission's framework for good-faith coordination and allow NGSO and GSO operators to bargain for appropriate interference protections through voluntary, private agreement. The Order further adopts technical backstops to protect GSO systems when coordination has not been reached.
What this rule actually says
The FCC updated how satellite internet companies can share radio spectrum without interfering with each other. Instead of using outdated 1990s interference limits that forced satellite operators to be overly cautious, the new rule lets satellite companies negotiate directly with each other about acceptable interference levels, with technical guardrails if they can't agree. Think of it like updating building codes so neighboring properties can use their land more efficiently instead of over-building for worst-case scenarios.
Who it applies to
- If you operate satellite broadband systems — either geostationary (GSO) or non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) satellites — this applies to you.
- If you build AI applications using satellite internet as infrastructure, this *indirectly* affects you by potentially improving service availability, but you don't have direct compliance obligations.
- If you are a US-based AI founder building medical scribes, hiring assistants, support chatbots, or similar tools — this does not apply to you unless you also happen to operate or license satellite spectrum.
- Jurisdictions: This is FCC regulation, so it applies to satellite operators serving US markets and US-based spectrum operations.
- Data scopes: This rule has nothing to do with user data, privacy, or AI model training. It's purely about radio frequency spectrum allocation.
What founders need to do
This regulation requires zero action from indie AI founders unless you operate satellite systems.
If you are somehow building satellite-based infrastructure:
- Review your spectrum licenses (1-2 days). Check whether you hold GSO or NGSO satellite licenses that operate in US frequencies.
- Audit your interference protection strategy (3-5 days). If you relied on the old EPFD limits, understand how the new performance-based criteria change your operational constraints.
- Establish coordination procedures (1-2 weeks). Set up processes to negotiate interference protection agreements with other satellite operators in your frequency band.
- Monitor FCC guidance (ongoing, minimal effort). The FCC will likely issue technical implementation details; subscribe to their satellite licensing updates.
Bottom line
Ignore this unless you operate satellite spectrum — it doesn't touch AI applications, user data, or software-only businesses, no matter how cutting-edge your AI is.