SpaceX Urges FCC to Get Moving, Speed Up Satellite Approvals

pcmag.com:

To speed up development of Starlink, Space is urging the FCC to implement new rules for processing satellite applications. 

The company made the request in meetings with the US regulator this week, according to a SpaceX FCC filing. “These small changes, which find significant support in the record, would have dramatic benefits for consumers and American space leadership,” it says.

In particular, SpaceX wants to nix an FCC rule that requires the company to file applications “for the smallest changes to the mass, size, and physical characteristics of satellites system, even where those changes would reduce collision risk.”

Enforcing the rule would saddle the FCC with more paperwork and prevent companies from quickly adding beneficial upgrades to their satellites, SpaceX argues. For example, SpaceX itself wants to upgrade its first-generation Starlink satellite constellation with improved hardware. 

“Permitting operators to continue to make improvements to their systems without formal modifications would strengthen space sustainability and allow operators to rapidly respond to issues,” the company adds. 

SpaceX makes the request ahead of an expected FCC vote on new rules designed to expedite satellite application processing on Sept. 21. The new rules include eliminating procedures no longer deemed necessary and establishing timelines for the FCC to determine if a satellite application is acceptable for filing or if it needs further vetting.

SpaceX says it supports the FCC’s current proposal, but the company wants the commission to go further in streamlining the rules by adopting its suggestions. This includes enforcing definitive deadlines for reviewing and taking an action on a satellite application, also known as “shot