Viasat Executive Warns of Potential Impact on GEO Investments and Innovation
The ongoing WRC-23 conference in Dubai has become a battleground for the debate surrounding the review of Equivalent Power Flux Density (EPFD) limits. This proposal, which seeks to update the rules governing how powerful non-geostationary (NGSO) satellite signals should be to avoid disrupting geostationary orbit (GEO) spacecraft, has sparked controversy among industry players. While NGSO companies like SpaceX and Amazon argue that updating EPFD rules would foster innovation outside of GEO, GEO operators, including Viasat, assert that the existing rules strike the right balance. As the conference progresses, the outcome of this debate will have far-reaching implications for investments and advancements in satellite technology.
NGSO Players Push for EPFD Rule Changes
NGSO players, such as SpaceX and Amazon, have been vocal proponents of revisiting EPFD rules. They argue that the current regulations, established over a decade ago, hinder innovation in orbits outside of GEO. Amazon has even formed the Alliance for Satellite Broadband, collaborating with several think tanks to advocate for EPFD changes. The proponents of this stance believe that updating the rules will enable the deployment of higher throughput satellites and smaller, more cost-effective antennas.
GEO Operators Defend Existing Rules
On the other side of the debate, GEO operators, including Viasat, emphasize the importance of maintaining the current EPFD limits. They argue that any changes to the rules would not only disrupt a stable regulatory regime but also undermine the investment environment. According to Viasat’s John Janka, altering the rules would favor megaconstellations and pose a significant risk to startups and companies dependent on external funding. GEO operators like SES and Intelsat also express concerns about the proposal, highlighting the need to strike a balance between protecting their interests and fostering an open and dynamic industry.
Telesat and Intelsat Advocate for Revisiting EPFD Rules
While some GEO operators defend the existing rules, others, like Telesat and Intelsat, see value in revisiting EPFD regulations. Telesat, a GEO operator planning to deploy an NGSO network in 2026, believes that a review is necessary to align the rules with the modern space economy. Elisabeth Neasmith, Telesat’s senior director for regulatory issues, argues that even if no changes are made, it is essential to reassess the rules in the current context. Intelsat, which plans to launch an NGSO constellation in 2027, aims to review the rules to ensure they are in line with technological advancements and to address any potential loopholes.
Conclusion:
As the WRC-23 conference continues, the proposal to review EPFD limits remains a contentious topic. The outcome of this debate will have significant implications for the future of satellite technology, investments, and innovation. While NGSO players advocate for rule changes to support advancements outside of GEO, GEO operators emphasize the need to maintain the existing regulatory regime. The decision made at WRC-23 will shape the industry’s trajectory and determine the balance between protecting established interests and fostering a dynamic and open space economy.
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