FCC Axes NGSO FSS Domestic Coverage Requirement
Saying requiring non-geostationary orbit fixed satellite service systems to cover all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands could discourage some NGSO FSS systems' development, the FCC dropped the requirement. In an order Friday, it waved off the…
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idea NGSO FSS operators might avoid rural and remote areas in favor of covering densely populated markets, saying their niche is areas where terrestrial coverage is particularly expensive. "They have the incentive to concentrate their efforts in those areas where they have a cost advantage," it said. In a statement, Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel said dropping the requirement "is intended to promote more service, not less," particularly in remote areas like Alaska and Hawaii. There's increased satellite interest in constellations focusing on Alaska and the Arctic (see 2008120005).