The Federal Communications Commission Proposes Modernized Space Licensing Rules

Introduction

The Federal Communications Commission (the "Commission") has proposed rules to completely overhaul its satellite and earth station licensing process by creating a "licensing assembly line" that is more efficient and predictable than current licensing procedures. The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking ("NPRM") was published on December 5, 2025, with comments due on January 20, 2026 and reply comments due on February 18, 2026. The proposed rules are a response to the recent surge in applications and increasing complexity of space technology, in furtherance of the Commission's Build America agenda to boost the space economy and "delete, delete, delete" regulatory red tape. Among other things, the proposed rules seek to expedite applications that do not raise concerns related to harmful interference, spectrum efficiency, space safety, or foreign ownership.