On February 28, 2025, the FCC released a Notice of Inquiry (“NOI”) seeking comment on the potential repurposing of the Upper C-Band (3.98 GHz to 4.2 GHz) for more intensive use. The NOI was adopted at the February Open Meeting.
The NOI seeks stakeholder input on how to balance spectrum efficiency, economic growth, and protection of existing Fixed Satellite Service (“FSS”) operators, earth stations, and adjacent-band users incumbent services, while examining whether the Upper C-band should be repurposed for new uses, such as expanded mobile services. The NOI asks whether a portion or all of the band should be opened for new services, potentially following the model of the prior 3.7 GHz Service transition, which relocated FSS operations and enabled 5G deployment.
The FCC is particularly interested in understanding the current and future needs of FSS operators, how they use the band for broadcasting, data, and telecommunication services, and whether alternative technologies (e.g., fiber, Ku/Ka-band satellites) could replace C-band operations. The FCC also seeks input on coexistence strategies, potential relocation costs, and technical advancements (e.g., compression, filtering) that might enable spectrum sharing.
Additionally, the NOI raises concerns about radio altimeters in the adjacent 4.2–4.4 GHz band, questioning whether improved altimeter technology mitigates interference risks. The FCC proposes to explore various transition mechanisms, including market-based approaches like auctions or overlay licenses, as well as financial incentives to accelerate relocation or repacking of FSS users. It also seeks feedback on service rules, technical protections, and cross-border coordination. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide detailed economic and technical data on costs, benefits, and feasibility to guide future policy decisions.
The NOI did not address the lower 3.7 GHz band, which was not previously reallocated for mobile use outside of the contiguous United States.
Comments are due April 29, 2025.
Reply Comments are due May 29, 2025.
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