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FCC Frees Spectrum for 5G, Shifts Satellites
23 Jul
Summary
- FCC auctions 160 MHz of C-band spectrum for 5G by July 2027.
- Satellite operators to relocate to new frequencies or bands.
- New licensing rules aim to speed up commercial space economy.
The Federal Communications Commission has voted to reallocate additional C-band spectrum for a 5G auction scheduled for July 2027. This auction will offer 160 megahertz in the 3.98-4.14 gigahertz band, building upon a prior 2020 sale that generated over $80 billion.
Clearing these frequencies will establish a 440 megahertz "super band" for terrestrial wireless networks. Services are anticipated to launch in the top 75 U.S. markets as early as December 2030. Incumbent satellite operators, mainly distributing TV services, will transition to remaining upper C-band spectrum or other bands like Ku-band.
To facilitate this transition, satellite operators will receive incentives for relocation, though the total sum is expected to be less than in the previous lower C-band auction. The FCC also coordinated with the FAA to ensure 5G deployment does not interfere with aircraft radio altimeters, with plans for necessary upgrades. Separately, new rules were adopted to streamline satellite and earth station licensing, creating an "assembly line" process to expedite applications and support the growing commercial space sector.
