# FCC Modernizes Satellite Spectrum Rules

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has updated satellite spectrum sharing regulations, replacing outdated 1990s power limits with a performance-based framework designed to increase low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite broadband capacity by up to seven times. This modernization is expected to unlock over $2 billion in economic value by expanding satellite access to more than 1,000 MHz of spectrum in the 12 GHz and 42 GHz bands. The FCC plans a key vote on September 30, 2026, to finalize these changes, which will enable faster broadband services, particularly benefiting underserved and mobile users. Full realization of these benefits depends on subsequent technical rule finalization, interference management, and commercial deployment of compatible ground terminals.

- **Why this matters:** Procurement professionals and contractors in satellite communications and broadband infrastructure should prepare for increased demand for advanced satellite hardware and ground terminal technologies compatible with the new spectrum rules.
- Satellite operators and launch service providers like Viasat, SES, DirecTV, and SpaceX may see expanded opportunities to deploy enhanced broadband services under the updated regulatory framework.
- Organizations involved in spectrum management and interference resolution will play a critical role in enabling the performance-based approach and ensuring efficient spectrum utilization.
- The modernization signals a shift toward performance-based procurement requirements, emphasizing technical innovation and capacity expansion in satellite broadband services.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Information Technology
**Topics:** Digital Infrastructure
**Published:** September 18, 2026

### Government Entities
- Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

### Vendors
- Viasat (satellite operator)
- SES (satellite operator)
- DirecTV (satellite operator)
- SpaceX (launch service provider)

### Key Quotes
> The change could unlock more than $2 billion in economic benefits for the American people and up to sevenfold more capacity for space-based broadband services.
> — Brendan Carr, FCC Chairman

### Sources
- [Satellite power rules written three decades ago held back more than $2 billion in US broadband value, and a federal spectrum overhaul is projected to push capacity up to sevenfold on the same hardware](https://gcn.com/satellite-power-spectrum-2-billion-broadband/21751) - gcn.com