Viasat Executive Warns of Potential Curtailment of Investments and Innovation in GEO
A proposal to review the Equivalent Power Flux Density (EPFD) limits for satellite transmission power is causing a stir in the space industry. The discussion is taking place at the four-week WRC-23 conference in Dubai, where global spectrum rules are being updated. The proposal, if adopted, could potentially affect the balance between non-geostationary (NGSO) satellite signals and geostationary orbit (GEO) spacecraft. While NGSO players argue that updating EPFD rules would support innovation, GEO operators believe the current rules strike the right balance. The outcome of this debate could have significant implications for investment and technological advancements in satellite networks.
NGSO Players Advocate for EPFD Changes to Foster Innovation
NGSO players, including SpaceX and Amazon, are pushing for changes to EPFD rules to support innovation in orbits outside of GEO. They argue that the current rules, established over a decade ago, are hindering progress in the industry. Amazon recently formed the Alliance for Satellite Broadband to advocate for EPFD changes, claiming that the rules are holding back NGSO innovation.
GEO Operators Argue for Maintaining the Status Quo
On the other hand, GEO operators, such as Viasat, contend that the current EPFD rules strike the right balance between protecting their interests and supporting NGSO newcomers. Viasat’s global chief of government affairs and regulatory officer, John Janka, warns that changing the rules could impede innovation by others, including the deployment of higher throughput satellites and more cost-effective antennas. GEO operators believe that revisiting the rules could disrupt the stable regulatory regime that has supported significant investment in satellite networks in recent years.
Middle Ground and Calls for Review
While some GEO operators oppose any changes to EPFD rules, others see a middle ground. Telesat, a GEO operator planning to deploy an NGSO network in 2026, believes that the rules should be revisited in the context of a modern space economy, even if no changes are made. Elisabeth Neasmith, Telesat’s senior director for regulatory issues, argues that it is important to reassess the rules to ensure they align with the current and future state of technology.
Intelsat Calls for a Balanced Approach
Intelsat, a GEO operator planning its own NGSO constellation in 2027, supports a review of EPFD rules. However, they emphasize the need to ensure that any changes align with the current and future state of technology and close possible loopholes. Intelsat believes that an open and dynamic industry is crucial for the satellite sector.
Conclusion:
The proposal to review EPFD limits at the WRC-23 conference has sparked a heated debate between NGSO players and GEO operators. While NGSO players argue that changes are necessary to foster innovation, GEO operators believe that the current rules strike the right balance. The outcome of this debate could have far-reaching implications for investment and technological advancements in satellite networks. As negotiations continue at the conference, stakeholders are eagerly awaiting a resolution that will shape the future of satellite transmission power limits.
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