The Federal Communications Commission announced it plans to vote later in September 2026 on what it is calling a "satellite spectrum abundance" Report and Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, aimed at opening more than 1,000 megahertz of spectrum across the 12 GHz and 42 GHz bands for a range of connectivity services.
The same September agenda includes a separate order narrowing the FCC's National Environmental Policy Act review requirements for infrastructure siting, and rules intended to modernize unlicensed ultra-wideband spectrum for emerging uses including AI-based sensing.
Why it matters
Satellite broadband providers, including those building next-generation constellations, have pushed for years for access to more usable spectrum, and freeing up more than 1,000 megahertz would be among the largest such allocations in recent memory. The accompanying move to narrow environmental review timelines matters for how quickly new towers, satellite ground stations and data-center-adjacent infrastructure can be built, at a moment when demand for connectivity tied to AI workloads is straining existing networks.
How the rule works
The FCC sets spectrum policy through notice-and-comment rulemaking, with a Report and Order finalizing rules after public input and a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeking additional comment on related questions. The 12 GHz and 42 GHz bands under consideration would be reallocated or reassigned to support additional satellite and wireless connectivity uses, while the ultra-wideband item would update technical rules governing a category of unlicensed spectrum already used for short-range sensing and positioning, extending it toward AI-driven sensing applications.
Evidence
Reuters reported on September 8, 2026 that the FCC proposed opening more wireless spectrum for space-based wireless service, and Inside Towers and Broadband Breakfast both reported the commission's plan to vote on the satellite spectrum abundance order, the NEPA-narrowing order, and the ultra-wideband rules at its September 2026 open meeting, alongside other agenda items on 911 access and robocalls.
The competing read
The FCC under its current leadership has framed the spectrum and permitting changes as necessary to keep U.S. wireless and satellite infrastructure competitive globally and to remove regulatory bottlenecks that slow buildout. Some environmental and public-interest groups have raised concerns that narrowing NEPA review could reduce scrutiny of infrastructure sited near sensitive land or communities, a trade-off the commission argues is justified by the pace of demand for new connectivity capacity.
What happens next
The FCC's vote on the satellite spectrum abundance order and related items is scheduled for its September 2026 open meeting, after which affected industries, including satellite operators, wireless carriers and equipment makers, will begin adapting to the new band allocations and permitting timelines. Further rulemaking proceedings are expected to work out technical interference and coordination details before commercial deployment in the newly opened bands.