The Federal Communications Commission voted to overhaul its satellite spectrum-sharing framework, replacing legacy rules from the 1990s with a modernized approach designed to improve performance for next-generation broadband constellations. The new Report and Order (FCC 26-26), adopted on April 30, 2026, introduces updated technical criteria intended to better reflect advances in satellite technology and network design.
The decision eliminates the long-standing Equivalent Power Flux Density (EPFD) limits that governed interference between non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) and geostationary orbit (GSO) satellite systems. In their place, the FCC established performance-based GSO protection criteria, allowing operators greater flexibility in managing interference while leveraging modern techniques such as adaptive coding and modulation (ACM). The framework continues to rely on coordination between operators, encouraging negotiated agreements rather than rigid, one-size-fits-all constraints.
FCC officials stated that the previous EPFD-based regime constrained NGSO operators’ ability to deliver higher-speed, lower-latency services, particularly in underserved and rural areas. By enabling more efficient spectrum sharing, the Commission estimates the changes could unlock more than $2 billion in economic benefits and increase satellite broadband capacity by up to seven times.
- Replaces EPFD limits developed in the late 1990s with performance-based protection criteria
- Enables more flexible spectrum sharing between NGSO and GSO satellite systems
- Supports advanced technologies such as adaptive coding and modulation (ACM)
- Maintains coordination framework through voluntary, private agreements among operators
- Targets improved broadband performance for rural and remote users
- Estimated impact: up to 7x increase in capacity and more than $2 billion in economic benefits
“This is a major step toward enhancing the satellite broadband experience for millions of Americans by enabling faster speeds, lower costs, and greater reliability,” the FCC stated.
🌐 Analysis: The FCC’s shift away from EPFD reflects growing pressure from NGSO operators such as SpaceX (Starlink), Amazon Leo and OneWeb to unlock higher power levels and more efficient spectrum utilization. The move aligns U.S. policy with the technical realities of modern LEO constellations, where dynamic beamforming and ACM can mitigate interference more effectively than static limits.
At the same time, the decision introduces a more negotiation-driven model between NGSO and GSO operators, which may shift competitive dynamics in satellite broadband. Established GEO providers such as Viasat and SES will need to engage more actively in coordination agreements, while newer LEO entrants gain greater operational flexibility. The outcome could accelerate capacity expansion and pricing competition across the satellite broadband market.
