FCC Regulates Satellite Spectrum Amid AST SpaceMobile and SpaceX Competition

The FCC has approved AST SpaceMobile to operate satellite-to-phone services in the US, allowing it to compete with SpaceX's Starlink Mobile. This approval includes the use of a 248 satellite constellation to provide connectivity in cellular dead zones. However, the FCC also denied SpaceX's request for access to the 1.6/2.4GHz spectrum, reinforcing existing licenses held by Globalstar and Iridium. The Commission emphasized the need for regulatory stability and protection against interference for existing users. Additionally, AST's request for a slice of 2.0 and 2.1GHz spectrum was rejected, which SpaceX argued would cause harmful interference. The FCC's decisions aim to clarify the operational boundaries for satellite services in a rapidly evolving market. Both companies are now navigating a complex regulatory landscape as they seek to expand their services.

Key Points: • AST SpaceMobile received FCC approval for satellite-to-phone services. • The FCC denied SpaceX's request for additional spectrum access, maintaining existing licenses. • AST's request for certain spectrum was also rejected to prevent interference.