Photo: Via Satellite archive

The FCC is looking to make more spectrum available for what it calls “weird space stuff” — in other words, to support telemetry, tracking, and command (TT&C) for emerging space applications. 

The FCC released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) on March 5 to explore new spectrum to support TTC for use cases like orbital labs, in-orbit satellite repairs, and commercial space stations. According to the NPRM, TT&C spectrum isn’t available on a dedicated basis for these new use cases in space, and these types of missions face a shortage of spectrum for TT&C. 

If the FCC adopts the NPRM, it would kick off a proceeding in which the FCC would take comment on a number of issues, and propose adding an allocation for Earth-to-space communication in the 2320-2345 MHz band. 

“America’s leadership in space relies on predictable spectrum resources. Whether we’re talking about repairing a satellite in orbit or creating pharmaceutical solutions to our health care challenges in a space lab, these very real ventures will require very real resources, including secure radio signals for control and basic operations. Today’s proposal is the first step toward the spectrum abundance needed to give America’s space activities the predictable spectrum environment they need to thrive,” FCC Chair Brendnan Carr said in a statement.