On April 18, 2023, the Space Bureau and Wireless Telecommunications Bureau released a Public Notice seeking comment on filings by Space X and T-Mobile that seek permission to establish supplemental coverage from space for T-Mobile’s terrestrial network using SpaceX satellites. In February, the companies filed an Application for Modification of SpaceX’s second-generation non-geostationary orbit Fixed-Satellite Service system (“Gen2 System”), which included a Request for Waiver, and four wireless lease applications (ULS File Nos. 0010303032, 0010303084, 0010303124, and 0010303146) (collectively the “Applications”). The Applications appear to comply with the procedures proposed in the Supplemental Coverage from Space Notice of Proposed Rulemaking adopted at the March Open Commission Meeting.
The Applications propose to utilize the Starlink constellation of low-Earth orbit, non-geostationary orbit satellites to add a direct-to-cellular communications capability on up to 7,500 Gen2 Starlink satellites. The satellites would utilize T-Mobile’s PCS G Block spectrum (1910-1915 MHz and 1990-1995 MHz) to communicate with end user devices on T-Mobile’s network. T-Mobile is the sole licensee of PCS G Block spectrum in almost all of the United Sates. In the Applications, SpaceX notes it plans to provide similar services internationally.
Comments/Petitions are due on or before May 18, 2023.
Response to Comments/Oppositions to Petitions are due on or before May 29, 2023.
Replies to Responses/Oppositions are due on or before June 2, 2023.
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