In 30 Seconds: The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) took action at its September Open Meeting to unlock more than 1,000 megahertz of additional spectrum in the 12.7 and 42 gigahertz bands for satellite communications. That means more capacity to support next-generation low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite broadband, strengthening competition and expanding connectivity options, particularly for communities that remain difficult to connect.

As CEC Sees It:

More Spectrum = More Capacity to Connect Everyone, Everywhere

Expanding broadband access takes more than putting satellites into orbit. Those satellites need access to spectrum – the radio frequencies that carry data between space and the people relying on a connection. The FCC’s action makes more of that essential resource available. As Chairman Brendan Carr explained, the additional downlink spectrum can provide “more bandwidth for in-home service,” helping next-generation satellite broadband become faster and more reliable.

For rural and remote communities, that capacity can help support the connections people need to work, learn, access healthcare and stay in touch. It also advances CEC’s goal of using every tool in the connectivity toolbox to bring fast, affordable broadband to everyone.

Modern Spectrum Policy = More Innovation and Consumer Choice

As satellite technology evolves, the policies governing spectrum access must keep pace. Opening additional spectrum creates room for providers to develop new services and compete to meet consumers’ connectivity needs.

Commissioner Anna Gomez described expanding access in the two bands as “sensible spectrum management” as the country increasingly relies on space-based connectivity. Commissioner Olivia Trusty underscored the potential benefits: “Greater capacity can support more services, more competition and more choices for American consumers.”

State of Play: On September 30, 2026, theFCC adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to advance U.S. leadership in the ‘New Space Age’ by unlocking additional spectrum for satellite services.This action builds on the FCC’s broader efforts to support satellite innovation and U.S. leadership in space, including recent modernizations of spectrum sharing rules and streamlining of equivalent power flux density (EPFD) regulations in May. Together, these reforms create a more predictable policy environment for space innovators to expand LEO satellite services and close the digital divide.

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