FCC Proposes Framework for Supplemental Coverage from Space

On March 16, the FCC adopted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in a proceeding that the agency calls "Single Network Future: Supplemental Coverage from Space." The Commission's proposal would establish a new regulatory framework for Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS) that would facilitate the integration of satellite and terrestrial networks. As the Notice explains, the Commission's proposal would enable satellite operators collaborating with terrestrial service providers to operate space stations on currently licensed, flexible-use spectrum allocated to terrestrial services, thereby expanding wireless coverage to the terrestrial licensee's subscribers. In other words, the Commission's framework would make it easier for terrestrial wireless service coverage to be supplemented by service coverage delivered from space stations. This includes providing wireless connectivity from space stations directly to everyday wireless devices used by consumers and business enterprises. SCS has the potential to significantly expand or at least improve wireless services in unserved and underserved areas that are geographically difficult to connect. 

In a March 6 blog post, titled "Big Announcements on Deployments of Direct-to-Device (D2D) Satellite Services," I wrote about Ligado Networks' partnership plans to offer D2D mobile connectivity to enterprises and consumers in areas were terrestrial cellular wireless coverage is lacking. The Commission's Notice in its Single Network Future proceeding appears intended to promote similar types of innovative collaborative efforts by satellite and wireless providers. 

 

The Single Network Future proceeding is one of the most interesting and promising proceedings for American consumers on the FCC's docket. The Commission did a good thing in adopting its Notice on facilitating SCS.