Satellite Spat: Blue Origin's Plan Draws SpaceX Fire

SpaceX has formally objected to Blue Origin's proposed TeraWave satellite internet system, citing significant concerns over radio interference. The objection, sent to the Federal Communications Commission, details how Blue Origin's plan for 5,408 next-generation satellites could disrupt existing services, particularly SpaceX's Starlink. The core of the dispute lies in the proposed use of specific radio bands and omnidirectional antennas for telemetry, tracking, and command (TT&C) operations by TeraWave.

SpaceX argues that Blue Origin's proposed low-gain, omnidirectional antennas would lead to inefficient spectrum use and increased interference, potentially affecting millions of Starlink customers. The company recommends that Blue Origin adopt high-gain directional antennas to mitigate these risks. Other satellite operators, including AST SpaceMobile and Viasat, have echoed these concerns, with Viasat petitioning the FCC to deny Blue Origin's proposal outright due to unacceptable interference risks and foreclosed spectrum uses.