[Federal Register Volume 84, Number 195 (Tuesday, October 8, 2019)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 53630-53659]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2019-19810]


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FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION

47 CFR Parts 2 and 25

[IB Docket No. 17-95; FCC 18-138]


Earth Stations in Motion

AGENCY: Federal Communications Commission.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: In this document, the Federal Communications Commission 
(Commission) amends its rules to facilitate the deployment of earth 
stations in motion (ESIMs) communicating with geostationary (GSO) 
fixed-satellite service (FSS) satellite systems.

DATES: This rule is effective: October 8, 2019.

ADDRESSES: You may submit comments, identified by IB Docket No. 17-95, 
by any of the following methods:
     Federal Communications Commission's Website: http://apps.fcc.gov/ecfs. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     People with Disabilities: Contact the FCC to request 
reasonable accommodations (accessible format documents, sign language 
interpreters, CART, etc.) by email: [email protected] or phone: 202-418-
0530 or TTY: 202-418-0432.
    For detailed instructions for submitting comments and additional 
information on the rulemaking process, see the SUPPLEMENTARY 
INFORMATION section of this document.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Cindy Spiers, 202-418-1593.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This is a summary of the Commission's Report 
and Order (R&O), IB Docket No. 17-95, FCC 18-138, adopted on September 
26, 2018, and released on September 27, 2018. The full text of this 
document is available at https://apps.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC-18-138A1.pdf. The full text of this document is also available for 
inspection and copying during business hours in the FCC Reference 
Information Center, Portals II, 445 12th Street SW, Room CY-A257, 
Washington, DC 20554. To request materials in accessible formats for 
people with disabilities, send an email to [email protected] or call the 
Consumer & Governmental Affairs Bureau at 202-418-0530 (voice), 202-
418-0432 (TTY).

Paperwork Reduction Act

    This document contains new and modified information collection 
requirements. The Commission has received approval from the Office of 
Management and Budget (OMB) for the information collection requirements 
contained in this document, as required by the Paperwork Reduction Act 
of 1995, Public Law 104-13. OMB approval was received on July 17, 2019 
for OMB control number 3060-0678. In addition, we previously sought 
comments from the public on how the Commission might further reduce the 
information collection burden for small business concerns with fewer 
than 25 employees pursuant to the Small Business Paperwork Relief Act 
of 2002, Public Law 107-198, see 44 U.S.C. 3506(c)(4).

Synopsis

    In this Report and Order (R&O), the Commission simplifies its rules 
to facilitate the continued deployment of Earth Stations in Motion 
(ESIMs) and reduce the regulatory burdens on ESIMs. First, we 
reorganize and consolidate the sections in part 25 of the Commission's 
rules, including technical and operational as well as application 
rules, for the three types of Fixed-Satellite Service (FSS) earth 
stations that the Commission authorizes to transmit while in motion: 
Earth Stations on Vessels (ESVs), Vehicle-Mounted Earth Stations 
(VMESs), and Earth Stations Aboard Aircraft (ESAAs), collectively known 
as ESIMs. Second, we amend our rules to allow the operation of ESIMs in 
the conventional Ka-band. Specifically, our rules apply to ESIMs 
communicating with geostationary-orbit (GSO) FSS space stations 
operating in 18.3-18.8 GHz and 19.7-20.2 GHz (space-to-Earth), and 
28.35-28.6 GHz and 29.25-30.0 GHz (Earth-to-space) frequency bands. The 
new rules create regulatory equity by adopting a regulatory regime for 
ESIM operations in the conventional Ka-band similar to that which 
currently exists in the conventional C-band, the conventional Ku-band, 
and in portions of the extended Ku-band.\1\
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    \1\ The ``conventional C-band'' refers to the 3700-4200 MHz 
(space-to-Earth) and 5925-6425 MHz (Earth-to-space) FSS frequency 
bands. See 47 CFR 25.103. The ``conventional Ku-band'' refers to the 
11.7-12.2 GHz (space-to-Earth) and 14.0-14.5 GHz (Earth-to-space) 
FSS frequency bands, and the ``extended Ku-band'' refers to the 
10.95-11.2 GHz, 11.45-11.7 GHz, and 13.75-14.0 GHz bands.
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Report and Order

    Commenters generally applaud the Commission for its decision to 
consolidate ESIMs regulations into a single rule section.\2\ AC BidCo 
urges the Commission to implement these revisions to eliminate 
redundancy in its rules and provide a unified framework

[[Page 53631]]

for all ESIM operations.\3\ Many commenters also support the proposed 
technical and operational changes. Several parties support extending 
the routine licensing of ESIMs into the Ka-band.\4\ Iridium, however, 
expresses concerns with this proposal,\5\ which are addressed below. As 
discussed in this decision, we generally adopt many of the changes 
proposed in the ESIMS NPRM.
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    \2\ See, e.g., Boeing Comments at 1; Inmarsat Comments at 8; 
Joint Commenters of Kymeta Corporation and Intelsat License LLC 
(Joint Comments) at 1; and ViaSat Comments at 1.
    \3\ AC BidCo Comments at 2. AC BidCo holds an ESAA license that 
is used by its affiliate Gogo Inc to provide inflight connectivity 
and wireless entertainment services for commercial and business 
fleets around the world. Id. at 1-2.
    \4\ See, e.g., Inmarsat Reply Comments at 1.
    \5\ Iridium Comments at 12.
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    We proposed to bring all the technical, operational and 
coordination requirements for blanket licensed-ESV, VMES and ESAA earth 
stations that are linked to GSO FSS space stations under one umbrella 
rule section, Sec.  25.228, applicable to ESIMs generally. We grouped 
ESIM requirements into the following categories: (1) Core rules (i.e. 
those applicable to all ESIMs); (2) vehicle-type specific \6\ rules 
that apply across multiple frequency bands; (3) frequency-band specific 
status and coordination rules; and (4) vehicle-type specific rules that 
apply to a single frequency band. In this Order, we adopt changes 
within all of these subparts to accomplish our goal of simplifying and 
streamlining the ESIMs rules.
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    \6\ ``Vehicle-type specific'' means applicable only to ESAA, to 
ESV, or to VMES.
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    Following the structure of the ESIMs NPRM, we first address 
proposals involving changes in more than one rule section and then 
address proposed changes in the remaining rules in the order in which 
they appear in part 25.

Definitions

    As proposed in the ESIMs NPRM, we amend several current definitions 
and add new definitions to our rules to provide greater clarity 
regarding the operation of earth stations in motion with GSO FSS space 
stations.\7\ In response to the proposed changes to the definitions in 
the NPRM, commenters uniformly support the changes discussed below.
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    \7\ See NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4242-43, paras. 8-14.
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    Definition of ESIMs. We adopt a definition for ESIMs in Sec.  
25.103.\8\ ESIM is defined to mean a term that collectively designates 
ESVs, VMESs and ESAAs, which are already defined in Sec.  25.103.\9\
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    \8\ 47 CFR 25.103.
    \9\ Id.
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    Revised Definition of Blanket License. We adopt the proposal to 
change the definition of Blanket License in Sec.  25.103 to refer to 
the type of satellite service in which the earth station operates, 
i.e., FSS or MSS rather than the type of earth station, i.e., fixed or 
mobile.\10\ Changing the earth-station categorization in this 
definition to FSS and MSS better reflects the types of stations that 
can be licensed to operate anywhere in a geographic area specified in 
the license. Additionally, we adopt other minor rewording for clarity.
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    \10\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4242-43, para. 10.
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    Definition of Network Control and Monitoring Center (NCMC). We also 
adopt the proposed definition of Network Control and Monitoring Center 
in Sec.  25.103.\11\ An NCMC, as used in the part 25 rules, is a 
facility that has the capability to remotely control earth stations 
operating as part of a satellite network or system.\12\
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    \11\ Id. at 4243, para. 11.
    \12\ As such, an NCMC would constitute a ``remote control 
point'' as that term is used in the part 25 rules (see, e.g., 47 CFR 
25.271(b), 25.272(d)(1)).
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    Eliminating Cross-References in Revised Definitions. We revise the 
definitions of VMES and ESAA to eliminate cross-references to rule 
sections (Sec. Sec.  25.226 and 25.227 respectively) that we are 
deleting in this Report and Order.\13\ Similarly, any cross-references 
to those deleted sections elsewhere in the rules are deleted as 
well.\14\ Furthermore, we revise the definitions of routine processing 
and a two-degree compliant space station in Sec.  25.103 to remove a 
cross-reference to Sec.  25.138(a), because we are consolidating Sec.  
25.138(a) into Sec.  25.218(i), as explained below.
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    \13\ The technical and operational rules in Sec. Sec.  25.226 
and 25.227 are being consolidated in Sec.  25.228, and the 
application rules are being consolidated in Sec.  25.115. See paras. 
0-0 and 67-0 infra.
    \14\ While we also moved the Sec. Sec.  25.221 and 25.222 
operating requirements for ESVs under the same umbrella that covers 
VMESs and ESAAs (i.e., the umbrella of the proposed Sec.  25.228 for 
ESIMs), the Sec.  25.103 definition of ESVs does not need to be 
revised to eliminate any outdated cross-references because it does 
not now contain any cross-references.
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Incorporating Sec.  25.138 Into Sec.  25.218, and Extending the 
Applicability of Sec.  25.218 to the Conventional Ka-Band and ESIMs

    In the ESIMs NPRM, the Commission proposed moving the conventional 
Ka-band provisions from Sec.  25.138 into similar paragraphs of Sec.  
25.218.\15\ The Commission also proposed applying Sec.  25.218 to all 
applications for fixed and temporary-fixed FSS earth stations 
transmitting to geostationary space stations in the conventional or 
extended C-band or Ku-band, or the conventional Ka-band, and to all 
applications for ESIMs in the conventional C-, Ku-, or Ka-band,\16\ 
except for applications proposing transmission of analog command 
signals at a band edge with bandwidths greater than 1 MHz or 
transmission of any other type of analog signals with bandwidths 
greater than 200 kHz.\17\ Section 25.218 contains off-axis equivalent 
isotropically radiated power (EIRP) density envelopes for FSS earth 
stations transmitting to GSO FSS space stations in the conventional C-
band, extended C-band, conventional Ku-band, or extended Ku-band.\18\ 
Earth stations in these frequency bands that comply with these 
envelopes are considered ``two-degree-spacing compliant,'' and the 
operators of their target space stations are not required to coordinate 
the operation of these earth stations with operators of nearby space 
stations. As proposed in the NPRM,\19\ we merge the off-axis EIRP 
density provisions of Sec.  25.138 into Sec.  25.218, thus extending 
the applicability of Sec.  25.218 to conventional Ka-band GSO FSS earth 
stations.\20\ Commenters support adoption of a consolidated rule that 
eliminates duplicative references to the off-axis EIRP spectral density 
limits and that would apply a single set of limits across all types of 
FSS earth station, including those on mobile platforms.\21\
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    \15\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4243-44, para. 15.
    \16\ See 47 CFR 25.103. The ``extended C-band'' refers to the 
600-3700 MHz (space-to-Earth), 5850-5925 MHz (Earth-to-space), and 
6425-6725 MHz (Earth-to-space) FSS frequency bands, and the 
``conventional Ka-band'' refers to the 18.3-18.8 GHz (space-to-
Earth), 19.7-20.2 GHz (space-to-Earth), 28.35-28.6 GHz (Earth-to-
space), and 29.25-30.0 GHz (Earth-to-space) frequency bands, which 
the Commission has designated as primary for GSO FSS operation. Id.
    \17\ Id. at para. 18.
    \18\ We note that the rules do not currently provide for ESIM 
operations in the extended C- band.
    \19\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4243-44, para. 15.
    \20\ See 47 CFR 25.218(i). This consolidation of rules does not 
involve any change to existing off-axis EIRP spectral density 
limits.
    \21\ See, e.g., Boeing Comments at 3; Inmarsat Comments at 3; 
and ViaSat Comments at 5-6.
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    Similarly, for organizational coherence, the Commission proposed 
making the conventional Ka-band requirements in Sec.  25.138(f), which 
hold blanket licensees responsible for operations of transceivers 
operating under their license, applicable to earth station licensees in 
all frequency bands.\22\ We will place this requirement in new Sec.  
25.290,\23\ and eliminate the

[[Page 53632]]

cross-reference to Sec.  25.138.\24\ The Commission proposed that Sec.  
25.290 would also include the rule contained in Sec.  25.287(d), which 
imposes the same requirement on licensees of mobile transmitters or 
transceivers operating in some Mobile-Satellite Service frequencies, 
allowing that that Sec.  25.287(d) be removed.\25\ Commenters broadly 
support these streamlining reorganizational moves which we adopt.\26\
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    \22\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4244, para. 17.
    \23\ In the NPRM, we proposed placing the requirements in new 
Sec.  25.289. See NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4244 para. 17. Because the 
Commission subsequently used Sec.  25.289 to adopt rules governing 
the protection of GSO networks by NGSO systems, we instead adopt 
these requirements as part of new Sec.  25.290.
    \24\ 47 CFR 25.290.
    \25\ We also proposed to retain the exception for analog video 
earth station applications.
    \26\ See, e.g., Inmarsat Comments at 3.
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Reorganizing and Streamlining the Technical, Operational and 
Coordination Requirements

Core ESIM Rules

    In the ESIMs NPRM, the Commission sought comment on combining the 
core ESIMs rules that were essentially the same for each type of 
ESIM.\27\ As both Boeing and the Joint Commenters note, the ``core'' 
rules governing ESVs, VMESs, and ESAAs are nearly but not quite 
identical, which creates unnecessary confusion for applicants and 
operators.\28\ The Commission proposed to amend the core rules, where 
necessary, to create uniformity. Specifically, for rules related to the 
Commission's GSO FSS two-degree orbital spacing policy, control of 
operating ESIMs, operational reports, and electromagnetic radiation 
safety, the Commission proposed substantive changes in some cases to 
eliminate unnecessary variations across types of ESIMs.\29\ As proposed 
in the NPRM, we also eliminate unnecessary duplication of rules across 
different rule sections.\30\ These changes are widely applauded by 
commenters.\31\ In the discussion to follow, we explain the substantive 
changes to the following areas of our ESIM rules: (1) Antenna pointing 
accuracy requirements, (2) EIRP density limits, (3) the self-monitoring 
(self-diagnostics) requirement, (4) the network control and monitoring 
center requirement, (5) logging requirements, and (6) the installation 
requirements related to radiation safety.
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    \27\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4245, para. 20.
    \28\ See Boeing Comments at 2; Joint Commenters at 3.
    \29\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4245-52, section C.
    \30\ Id. at 4243-44, paras. 19-20.
    \31\ See, e.g., AC BidCo Comments at 2; Inmarsat Comments at 2; 
Joint Commenters at 1; Telesat Comments at 2-3; ViaSat Comments at 
4-5.
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    Antenna Pointing Accuracy Requirement. As explained in the ESIMs 
NPRM, the definition of theta as revised by the 2015 Second Report and 
Order obviates the need for an antenna pointing accuracy requirement, 
because the limit on off-axis EIRP density toward adjacent satellites 
is fixed regardless of the direction in which the earth station antenna 
is pointed.\32\ Therefore, the Commission proposed to eliminate the 
antenna pointing accuracy requirement contained in the individual ESV, 
VMES, and ESAA rules in Sec. Sec.  25.221, 25.222, 25.226, and 
25.227.\33\ Most commenters support eliminating this requirement.\34\ 
ViaSat notes that it is now well-established in the industry and in the 
Commission's precedent that GSO FSS spectrum resources can be used for 
service to mobile platforms without adversely changing the operating 
environment created by a traditional FSS earth station.\35\ ViaSat 
further states that ``commercially available pointing mechanisms enable 
transmissions from these earth stations to remain focused on the 
desired GSO FSS space station even while the earth station is mounted 
on a moving platform. These technologies have been proven to be 
reliable through almost two decades of successful coexistence.'' \36\
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    \32\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4246, para. 22 (referencing 
Comprehensive Review of Licensing and Operating Rules for Satellite 
Services, IB Docket No. 12-267, Second Report and Order, 30 FCC Rcd 
14713, 14755, para. 115 (2015) (2015 Second Report and Order)). This 
is the same as the approach taken by the ITU in Resolution 156 (WRC-
15), which prescribes the operating conditions for ESIMs 
communicating with FSS space stations in the 19.7-20.2 GHz and 29.5-
30 GHz frequency bands. In that resolution, the off-axis angle theta 
is defined as the angle ``from the vector from the earth station 
antenna to the associated satellite.'' See Final Acts of WRC-15 at 
248. Resolution 156 does not contain any antenna pointing accuracy 
requirements, because its off-axis EIRP density limits, like those 
in Sec.  25.218 of the Commission's rules, are independent of the 
direction the ESIM antenna is pointed. See id. at 4246, fn. 33.
    \33\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4246, para. 22. As noted in the NPRM, 
the definition of theta was revised by the 2015 Second Report and 
Order. The definition in Sec. Sec.  25.221, 25.222, 25.226, and 
25.227 paragraph (a)(1)(i)(A) formerly read ``theta ([thgr]) is the 
angle in degrees from the line connecting the focal point of the 
antenna to the orbital location of the target satellite.'' The minor 
rewording of the definition takes into account the fact that not all 
earth stations use feedhorn-reflector type antennas with focal 
points, and the fact that earth station antennas pointed toward GSO 
FSS satellites are usually pointed to the assigned location of the 
satellite, and do not track the actual position of the target 
satellite at any given time. The same definition of theta is now 
used in Sec.  25.209, 47 CFR 25.209. See id. at 4246, fn. 32.
    \34\ AC BidCo Comments at 3-4; Hughes Comments at 3; Inmarsat 
Comments at 3; Joint Commenters at 4; ViaSat Comments at 4, 7.
    \35\ ViaSat Comments at 2.
    \36\ ViaSat Comments at 7.
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    We adopt the proposal to eliminate the antenna pointing 
requirement. ESIM transmissions must remain within our off-axis EIRP 
density limits under all operating conditions. As discussed above,\37\ 
these limits are specified at off-axis angles measured with respect to 
a vector from the earth station to the target satellite, not with 
respect to the direction the antenna is pointed. Thus, it is 
unnecessary for the Commission to prescribe limits on ESIM antenna 
pointing accuracy. By eliminating the antenna pointing accuracy 
requirement but maintaining the off-axis EIRP density limits, we give 
ESIM operators more flexibility in anomalous situations, because they 
can meet the off-axis EIRP density limits either by maintaining 
accurate antenna pointing or by reducing EIRP density when the antenna 
is mispointed, while continuing to protect adjacent-band 
operations.\38\
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    \37\ See para. 0 and n.9 supra.
    \38\ Joint Commenters Comments at 4.
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    Off-Axis EIRP Density Limits. In the ESIMs NPRM, the Commission 
noted that the off-axis EIRP density limits rule, Sec.  25.218, applied 
to applications for GSO FSS earth stations at fixed locations, but 
specifically excepted applications for ESVs, VMESs, and ESAAs.\39\ 
However, the numerical EIRP density limits over each specified angular 
range and the definition of [thgr] in Sec.  25.218 are the same as 
those for the same frequency bands in the individual ESIM Sec. Sec.  
25.221, 25.222, 25.226, and 25.227. Thus, to streamline the ESIMs 
rules, we cross-reference the off-axis EIRP density limits that already 
exist in Sec.  25.218. And because the conventional Ka-band off-axis 
EIRP density limits currently in Sec.  25.138 are merged into Sec.  
25.218, we only need to cross-reference Sec.  25.218 to cover all of 
the frequency bands in which our rules provide for ESIM operations. 
Most commenters are in favor of these changes.\40\
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    \39\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4247, para. 23.
    \40\ See, e.g., Boeing Comments at 3; Inmarsat Comments at 3; 
ViaSat Comments at 5-6; AC BidCo Reply Comments at 2.
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    One commenter, CTIA, expresses concern that relaxing the off-axis 
EIRP density limits may unintentionally limit the ability for FSS and 
Upper Microwave Flexible Use Service (UMFUS) to coexist.\41\ CTIA 
asserts that knowledge of the precise off-axis EIRP density from an FSS 
earth station is a key component in determining the interference margin 
between ESIMs in the presence of terrestrial operations in the adjacent 
spectrum bands.\42\ CTIA's concerns, however, are misplaced since the 
Commission is not relaxing the off-axis EIRP density limits for ESIMs.
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    \41\ CTIA Reply Comments at 4.
    \42\ Id.
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    Shutdown Requirements. The shutdown requirements contained in the 
individual ESIM sections require

[[Page 53633]]

cessation of emissions for ESV, VMES, and ESAA transmitters based on 
detection of antenna mispointing.\43\ Consistent with the proposed 
changes regarding antenna mispointing, the Commission proposed to 
replace the shutdown requirements with provisions in paragraphs (b) and 
(c) of Sec.  25.228 requiring cessation or reduction of emissions in 
the event that the ESIM or its associated network control and 
monitoring system detects that the ESIM has exceeded or is about to 
exceed the off-axis EIRP density limits.\44\ Commenters generally 
support this proposal, which we adopt.\45\
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    \43\ See paragraphs (a)(1)(iii) of Sec. Sec.  25.221, 25.222, 
25.226, and 25.227.
    \44\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4247, para. 25.
    \45\ Inmarsat supports the Commission's proposed shutdown and 
monitoring requirements, but it disagrees that ESIM applicants 
should have to ``demonstrate how that requirement will be met. 
Inmarsat Comments at 4. This is discussed further in paras. 0-0 
infra. See also Joint Commenters Comments at 4; ViaSat Reply 
Comments at 2 (concurring with Inmarsat's comments).
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    Contention Protocols. The Commission proposed that Sec.  25.228 
would not include the requirement in paragraphs (a)(4) of Sec. Sec.  
25.226 and 25.227 that VMES and ESAA applicants that plan to use a 
contention protocol in the uplink transmissions of their ESIMs certify 
that their use of the contention protocol is reasonable.\46\ This 
requirement is already contained in Sec.  25.115(i), and applies by its 
terms to applications for ESIMs.\47\ No commenters object to this 
revision, which is adopted.\48\
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    \46\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4248, para. 28.
    \47\ The duplication would be eliminated by deleting Sec. Sec.  
25.226 and 25.227 in their entireties, as proposed.
    \48\ See, e.g., Inmarsat Comments at 4 (stating that Inmarsat 
supports the Commission's proposals regarding contention protocols).
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    Point of Contact in the United States. The Commission proposed to 
consolidate the requirement that there be a point of contact in the 
United States with the authority and ability to cease all emissions 
into the platform-specific rules for ESVs, VMESs, and ESAAs in Sec.  
25.228.\49\ No commenters take exception to this proposal, which we 
adopt.\50\
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    \49\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4248, para. 29.
    \50\ See, e.g., Inmarsat Comments at 3 (noting that ``[t]hese 
rule revisions will promote uniformity and efficiency.'').
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    Data Logging Requirement. The Commission proposed to eliminate the 
data logging requirements that are in paragraphs (a)(5) of Sec. Sec.  
25.221 and 25.222 for C- and Ku-band ESV operators and in paragraphs 
(a)(6) of Sec. Sec.  25.226 and 25.227 for Ku-band VMES and ESAA 
operators.\51\ The Commission has never requested the logs for the 
vehicle location, transmit frequency, channel bandwidth, and target 
satellite of ESIM transmissions from an ESIM operator. Commenters 
almost uniformly report never having been asked for this data and were 
consistent in their support for eliminating the requirement.\52\ For 
example, Hughes comments that the Commission should find that the data 
logging requirements imposed on ESIM operators are onerous and 
unnecessary and, accordingly, should be eliminated.\53\ In its reply 
comments, ViaSat notes that HNS, Gogo, Inmarsat, Kymeta, Intelsat and 
Boeing confirm ViaSat's experience and understanding that ESIM location 
information has been unnecessary because there does not appear to have 
been any suspected cases of interference.\54\ However, SES and O3b 
state in reply comments that it had used this data to resolve 
interference events, without providing specifics.\55\ SES and O3b 
requests that if the Commission chooses to eliminate the requirement, 
we should remind ESIM operators that they must cooperate fully to 
resolve instances of harmful interference.\56\ Section 25.274(g) of the 
Commission's rules already imposes this requirement for all 
operators.\57\ Given the experience with several years of ESIM 
operations, we find that the logging requirement is no longer 
necessary.
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    \51\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4248, para. 30.
    \52\ AC BidCo Comments at 4; Boeing Comments at 5; Hughes 
Comments at 4; Inmarsat Comments at 3; Joint Commenters at 5; 
Telesat Comments at 6; and ViaSat at 4, 7-8; AC BidCo Reply Comments 
at 2-3.
    \53\ Hughes Comments at 4.
    \54\ ViaSat Reply Comments at 4.
    \55\ SES and O3b Reply Comments at 9-10.
    \56\ Id.
    \57\ 47 CFR 25.274(g).
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    Remote Monitoring and Control Requirement. The Commission proposed 
to incorporate a remote monitoring and control requirement in our 
proposed Sec.  25.228(c), and make it applicable to all types of 
ESIMs.\58\ The Commission proposed that each remote terminal must be 
(1) monitored and controlled by a network control and monitoring center 
(NCMC) or equivalent facility, (2) that each remote terminal must 
comply with ``disable transmission'' commands from the NCMC, and (3) 
that the NCMC must monitor the operation of each ESIM terminal in its 
network, and transmit a ``disable transmission'' command to a remote 
terminal that malfunctions in such a way as to cause unacceptable 
interference to another radiocommunication station. These requirements 
are spread throughout the existing rule sections.\59\ While the 
Commission did not include the 100 millisecond response time for 
complying with a ``disable transmission'' command in the text of the 
proposed rules, the Commission did pose the question as to whether it 
should be maintained.\60\ Commenters support the proposal to harmonize 
the requirements and maintain the 100 millisecond response time.\61\ 
For example, ViaSat notes that the capability of NCMCs to command 
individual ESIMs to cease or reduce emissions within 100 milliseconds 
if the aggregate off-axis EIRP density limits are being exceeded is 
already required in the separate service rules for each type of ESIM 
and has not been a barrier to ESIM deployment.\62\ Thus, ViaSat says 
incorporating a requirement into the consolidated rule to monitor the 
aggregate power density levels of all ESIMs in the network would not 
increase regulatory burdens or otherwise impede future deployment of 
ESIMs.\63\ To the contrary, ViaSat points out that this requirement is 
necessary to ensure that ESIM networks that use variable power control 
are capable of complying with the off-axis EIRP density limits in the 
aggregate, and thus ensuring that adjacent satellite networks are 
adequately protected.\64\
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    \58\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4248-49, para. 31.
    \59\ The monitoring and control requirements were in paragraphs 
(a)(2)(iii) and (a)(3)(iii) of Sec. Sec.  25.221, 25.222, 25.226, 
and 25.227; and 25.227(a)(10).
    \60\ See NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4249, para. 33 (addressing 
cessation of uplink transmissions for VMES).
    \61\ See, e.g., Hughes Comments at 2; Inmarsat Comments at 4; 
Telesat Comments at 7; and ViaSat Comments at 7.
    \62\ ViaSat Reply Comments at 8.
    \63\ Id.
    \64\ ViaSat Reply Comments at 8.
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    In contrast, Telesat asserts that specific NCMC capability 
requirements regarding aggregate off-axis EIRP spectral density limits 
are unnecessary and suggests that one possible approach for network 
operators to ensure compliance with aggregate off-axis EIRP spectral 
density limits is through the methodology in ITU Resolution 156.\65\ 
Telesat argues that network designers and operators should decide 
whether to monitor aggregate off-axis spectral density limits, but 
should not be required to do so.\66\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \65\ Telesat Comments at 7. Telesat states that under this 
methodology, compliance with the aggregate limit would be maintained 
by limiting the power density of each individual earth station by 10 
log(N) dB, where N is the ``number of earth stations in motion that 
are in the receive satellite beam of the associated satellite and 
that are expected to transmit simultaneously on the same 
frequency.'' Id.
    \66\ Id.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

[[Page 53634]]

    ViaSat asserts that Telesat's proposal is flawed due to the fact 
that Resolution 156 is premised on a requirement that an NCMC notify 
individual terminals to cease operations through ``disable 
transmission'' commands, and that means individual earth stations must 
be controlled by an NCMC in any event.\67\ According to ViaSat, the 
mechanism for controlling individual earth stations to manage aggregate 
off-axis EIRP density still is necessary under Resolution 156, both to 
calculate the apportioned power levels based on the number of operating 
terminals and to monitor the aggregate of the apportioned values, and 
command earth stations to adjust their levels or cease transmitting as 
required.'' \68\ We agree with ViaSat and further note that Note 4 of 
Annex 1 to ITU Resolution 156 explicitly addresses the need of 
controlling potential aggregate interference. ViaSat also states that 
the 10 log(N) approach, considered in Note 3 of Annex 1 to ITU 
Resolution 156 and not requiring controlling aggregate off-axis EIRP 
density is inappropriate for ESIMs using advanced modulation and coding 
techniques. We agree with ViaSat on this point. These techniques are 
intended to cope with propagation impairments specific to the location 
of each ESIM or for other network efficiency considerations. As a 
result, such ESIMs may intentionally transmit with different EIRP 
density levels.\69\ For those reasons, we do not agree with Telesat's 
proposal to eliminate the need for monitoring the aggregate off-axis 
EIRP density.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \67\ ViaSat Reply Comments at 7.
    \68\ Id.
    \69\ Id.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We also agree with ViaSat, Hughes and others that retaining the 
monitoring and control requirements, consolidating them into the ESIM 
section and harmonizing them for all types of ESIMs does not increase 
the regulatory burden. We also agree with commenters that the 
capabilities provided by the NCMC per these requirements are essential 
for effective spectrum sharing. We therefore adopt the proposed 
incorporation of the requirements, including the 100 millisecond 
response time, into Sec.  25.228 and the application of those 
requirements to all types of ESIMs.
    Self-Monitoring Requirement. Section 25.227(a)(11) requires that 
ESAA terminals be self-monitoring and capable of automatically ceasing 
transmission. Sec.  25.227 paragraphs (a)(1)(iii), (a)(2)(ii), and 
(a)(3)(ii), and corresponding paragraphs in Sec. Sec.  25.221, 25.222, 
and 25.226 contain similar self-monitoring requirements. The Commission 
proposed to make this requirement generally applicable to all types of 
ESIMs and to codify it in Sec.  25.228(b).\70\ Commenters are also 
supportive of extending this requirement to all ESIMs in the unified 
ESIM rule.\71\ We adopt the proposal to codify the self-monitoring 
requirement in Sec.  25.228(b).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \70\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4249, para. 32.
    \71\ See, e.g., Hughes Comments at 2; Inmarsat Comments at 4; 
ViaSat Comments at 7.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Cessation of Uplink Transmissions Upon Loss of Downlink Signal. 
Sections 25.226(a)(9) and 25.227(a)(9) state that each VMES or ESAA 
terminal must automatically cease transmitting within 5 seconds or 100 
milliseconds, respectively, upon loss of reception of the satellite 
downlink signal or when it detects that unintended satellite tracking 
has happened or is about to happen. In the ESIMs NPRM, the Commission 
proposed to eliminate these rules as redundant \72\ because Sec.  
25.271(g) applies by its terms to all types of ESIMs, and its provision 
with regard to loss of synchronization to signals from the target 
satellite is general enough to cover all situations of interest. Boeing 
and other commenters support this proposal.\73\ Specifically, Boeing 
states that the ``Commission's recent adoption of Sec.  25.271(g) 
adequately addresses this requirement for all earth stations operating 
with FSS networks without imposing a potentially arbitrary time limit 
(i.e., five [seconds] or a tenth of a second) for meeting the 
requirement.'' \74\ We affirm that Sec.  25.271(g) stands in the place 
of these vehicle-specific requirements, and delete Sec. Sec.  
25.226(a)(9) and 25.227(a)(9).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \72\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4249, para. 33.
    \73\ Boeing Comments at 5; Inmarsat Comments at 4.
    \74\ Boeing Comments at 6.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    ESIM Installation Requirement for Radiation Hazard Mitigation. Our 
rules require that all VMES and ESAA licensees ensure installation of 
VMES or ESAA terminals on vehicles by qualified installers who have an 
understanding of the antenna's radiation environment and use those 
measures best suited to maximize protection of the general public and 
persons operating the vehicle and equipment.\75\ The Commission 
proposed extending this requirement to ESVs operating in the C-, Ku- 
and Ka-bands, because the same basic rationale for the VMES and ESAA 
requirement appears to apply equally to ESVs--i.e., to ensure 
protection of members of the public (including those manning the 
vessels and operating the equipment), who may be exposed to hazardous 
radiation environments on vessels as well as on or in the vicinity of 
land vehicles and aircraft.\76\ Accordingly, the Commission proposed to 
consolidate the requirement into paragraph (d) of the proposed Sec.  
25.228.\77\ The Commission also proposed cross-referencing Sec.  1.1310 
Table 1 of the Commission's rules, rather than specifying the maximum 
permitted radiation exposure level in Sec.  25.228(d).\78\ As with 
other organizational changes, commenters are supportive.\79\ We 
therefore adopt these proposals.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \75\ The rules also require that a VMES or ESAA terminal 
exhibiting radiation exposure levels exceeding 1.0 mW/cm\2\ in 
accessible areas, such as at the exterior surface of the radome, 
must have a label attached to the surface of the terminal warning 
about the radiation hazard and must include thereon a diagram 
showing the regions around the terminal where the radiation levels 
could exceed 1.0 mW/cm\2\.
    \76\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4249, para. 34.
    \77\ Id.
    \78\ Id.
    \79\ AC BidCo Comments at 3; Inmarsat Comments at 4.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Reorganizing and Streamlining Footnotes to the Table of Frequency 
Allocations

    In the ESIMs NPRM, we proposed to reorganize and consolidate the 
sections in part 25 of the Commission's rules, including technical and 
operational as well as application rules, for the three types of ESIMs. 
This reorganization included updates to the Commission's Table of 
Frequency Allocations as necessary to reflect the changes we adopt in 
this Order. We find that this reorganization can better be accomplished 
with a few additional, non-substantive organizational changes in the 
non-Federal Government (NG) Footnotes to the Table of Frequency 
Allocations.\80\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \80\ 47 CFR 2.106. We note that these revisions are in addition 
to the changes proposed in the NPRM, such as to US133, and are 
adopted herein.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Specifically, we combined the text of footnote NG55 with part of 
the text from footnote NG52 which addresses ESIM sub-bands. Based on 
the number of the international footnote for ESIMs, 5.527A, the 
resulting footnote is numbered as NG527A.\81\ As a result of combining 
ESIM-related substantive issues in the new NG527A, we additionally move 
some text in NG52 to new footnote NG527A. Additionally, we combine the 
text of revised footnote NG180 with the existing text of NG181, and 
numbered the resulting footnote as NG457A.\82\ Finally, based on these 
revisions, we remove footnotes NG55, NG180, and NG181. The substantive

[[Page 53635]]

content in those footnotes is fully covered by the other revisions. We 
note below where these changes impact other revisions.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \81\ See Appendix B--Final Rules.
    \82\ As with the new ESIM footnote, NG527A, the numbering for 
the ESV footnote, NG457A, is based on the number of the 
international footnote for ESVs in the 5925-6425 MHz band, 5.457A.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Vehicle-Type Specific Rules Applicable Across Multiple Frequency Bands

    ESV Requirements. As explained in the ESIMs NPRM, there are two 
rule sections that address specific requirements for ESV operators that 
were adopted to codify section 306 of the Communications Act.\83\ 
Specifically, paragraphs (a)(6) and (a)(7) of Sec. Sec.  25.221 and 
25.222 require ESV operators, licensed by the FCC that are 
communicating with ESVs on vessels registered outside the United States 
to maintain detailed information on each vessel's country of registry 
and a point of contact within the foreign administration responsible 
for licensing the ESV, and to control ESVs using a hub earth station 
located in the United States. However, a U.S.-licensed ESV may operate 
under control of a hub earth station located outside the United States, 
provided that the ESV operator maintains a point of contact in the 
United States that can make the ESV cease transmitting if necessary. 
Because paragraphs (a)(6) and (a)(7) of Sec. Sec.  25.221 and 25.222 
are statutorily based, we retain these requirements in paragraph (e)(3) 
and paragraph (e)(1), respectively, of Sec.  25.228.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \83\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4250, para. 36. See also 47 U.S.C. 306.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We also discontinued our use of the term ``ESV hub operators'' and 
``hub earth stations'' for greater clarity. In their place, in our 
revised rules, we use the term ``network control and monitoring 
center'' (NCMC) \84\ to better reflect the nature of the functions 
performed by such facilities. Commenters generally offer approval of 
this ministerial change.\85\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \84\ As noted in paragraph 0 supra, we adopt the definition of 
network control and monitoring center (NCMC) in Sec.  25.103.
    \85\ Inmarsat Comments at 6.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    VMES Requirements. As the Commission noted in the ESIMs NPRM, there 
are currently no rules in part 25 of the Commission's rules that apply 
to VMES terminals in more than one frequency band,\86\ because VMES 
rules in part 25 only apply to Ku-band VMESs. In keeping with our goal 
to streamline rules for all ESIM operators, we did not propose in the 
NPRM, and do not adopt here, any VMES-specific rules that would apply 
across all frequency bands.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \86\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4250, para. 39.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    ESAA Requirements. There are four sections of Sec.  25.227 that are 
specific to ESAA operators in the Ku-band. There are no objections to 
our proposal to reorganize these ESAA requirements, either by 
eliminating redundant sections or incorporating them into Sec.  
25.228.\87\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \87\ Our decision to extend the requirements for ESAA operations 
to the conventional Ka-band is discussed further in the section on 
Ka-band ESIM rules.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    First, Sec.  25.227(a)(12) provides that ESAA applicants that 
comply with the established off-axis EIRP spectral-density limits may 
request Permitted List authority. We adopt the proposal to eliminate 
this rule section because this flexibility is already provided to 
applicants by Sec.  25.115(k)(1).\88\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \88\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4250, para. 40.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Next, we adopt the proposal to keep the requirement that is 
currently in Sec.  25.227(a)(14) and move it into Sec.  
25.228(g)(2).\89\ This requirement states that all ESAA terminals 
operating in U.S. airspace, whether on U.S.-registered civil aircraft 
or non-U.S.-registered civil aircraft, must be licensed by the 
Commission. It further states that all ESAA terminals on U.S.-
registered civil aircraft operating outside of U.S. airspace must be 
licensed by the Commission, except as provided by section 303(t) of the 
Communications Act.\90\ We also adopt the proposal to extend this 
requirement to apply to all Ka-band ESAA terminals.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \89\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4250-51, para. 41.
    \90\ 47 U.S.C. 303(t).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Section 25.227(a)(15) states that for ESAA systems operating over 
international waters, ESAA operators will certify that their target 
space station operators have confirmed that proposed ESAA operations 
are within coordinated parameters for adjacent satellites up to 6 
degrees away on the geostationary arc. In the ESIMs NPRM, the 
Commission pointed out that the provisions of Sec. Sec.  25.140 and 
25.220, which apply to U.S. satellites and earth stations, and Sec.  
25.137, which also applies to foreign-licensed points of communication, 
make Sec.  25.227(a)(15) redundant.\91\ As such, we eliminate this 
redundancy deleting this section and not bringing this requirement into 
the ESIM rule section.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \91\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4251, para. 42.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Finally, we adopt the proposal to move the requirements of Sec.  
25.227(a)(16) to new Sec.  25.228(g)(3), with a minor revision to make 
the requirement clearly imperative.\92\ Specifically, the provision 
requires that prior to operations within the foreign nation's airspace, 
the ESAA operator must ascertain whether the relevant administration 
has operations that could be affected by ESAA terminals, and must 
determine whether that administration has adopted specific requirements 
concerning ESAA operations. Further, in moving these requirements to 
Sec.  25.228(g)(3), we extend the existing requirement to apply to Ka-
band ESAA operators. Inmarsat argues that the provision in paragraph 
(g) of Sec.  25.228 that states that an ESAA terminal in foreign 
airspace must operate under the Commission's rules or those of the 
foreign operator, whichever are more constraining, should be 
eliminated.\93\ We disagree. The Commission's rules are designed, inter 
alia, to protect adjacent satellites spaced two degrees apart from 
interference from earth stations communicating with other satellites. 
In some cases, the satellites protected from interference by these 
rules are U.S.-licensed satellites serving foreign territory, where the 
relevant administrations may not have comparable rules.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \92\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4251, para. 43.
    \93\ Inmarsat Comments at 7.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Frequency-Band Specific Status and Coordination Rules

    As proposed in the NPRM and described in detail below, while moving 
the ESIM technical and operational requirements into a unified rule 
section, we eliminate redundancies and harmonize language whenever 
possible. In the separate ESIM sections, there are frequency-band 
specific rules for ESVs, VMESs and ESAAs in the conventional and 
extended Ku-bands.\94\ The Commission proposed to eliminate some of 
these requirements, which were redundant with other provisions in part 
25.\95\ The specific changes are explained below. We retain the 
provisions in paragraphs (c) and (d) of Sec. Sec.  25.222, 25.226, and 
25.227 which were not redundant and are now included in Sec.  25.228.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \94\ Under the adopted Sec.  25.228, there are Commission rules 
for ESIMs operation in four bands: The conventional C-band and the 
conventional and extended Ku-bands and conventional Ka-band.
    \95\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4251, para. 44.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Specifically, we eliminate the provision included in both 
Sec. Sec.  25.226(a)(8) and 25.227(a)(8), because this provision is 
redundant with the one in Sec.  25.209(c)(1). This requirement provides 
that in the relevant bands,\96\ VMES and ESAA terminals receive 
protection from interference caused by space stations other than the 
target space station only to the degree to which harmful interference 
would not be expected to be caused to a hypothetical earth station 
employing an

[[Page 53636]]

antenna conforming to the reference patterns defined in Sec.  25.209(a) 
and (b) and stationary at the location at which any interference 
occurred.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \96\ Specifically, VMES terminal receiving in the 10.95-11.2 GHz 
(space-to-Earth), 11.45-11.7 GHz (space-to-Earth) and 11.7-12.2 GHz 
(space-to-Earth) bands, and ESAA terminal receiving in the 11.7-12.2 
GHz (space-to-Earth) bands do not receive protection from 
interference.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Similarly, we eliminate the provision in Sec. Sec.  25.222(a)(8), 
25.226(a)(7) and 25.227(a)(7), which are redundant with new footnote 
NG527A to Sec.  2.106 of the Commission's rules.\97\ This footnote 
states that in the 10.95-11.2 GHz (space-to-Earth) and 11.45-11.7 GHz 
(space-to-Earth) frequency bands ESVs, VMESs and ESAAs must not claim 
protection from transmissions of non-Federal stations in the fixed 
service.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \97\ As noted above, we are moving the relevant text to NG527A 
from NG52 for organizational purposes.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Finally, the Commission noted in the ESIMs NPRM that there are two 
sets of coordination requirements for Ku-band ESIMs, which are 
contained in paragraphs (c) and (d) of Sec. Sec.  25.222, 25.226 and 
25.227.\98\ Paragraphs (c) in these rule sections address the 
coordination requirements related to the protection of the NASA 
Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS) in the 14.0-14.2 GHz 
frequency band. Paragraphs (d) address coordination requirements 
designed to protect the Radio Astronomy Service (RAS) in the 14.47-14.5 
GHz frequency band. Paragraphs (c), as well as paragraphs (d), in 
different rule sections, while covering the same frequency bands and 
coordination requirements to protect TDRSS or RAS operations, as 
applicable, are worded slightly differently in each rule section. We 
move these requirements to Sec.  25.228(j), with non-substantive word 
changes to harmonize the language for the requirements.\99\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \98\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4252, para. 47.
    \99\ 47 CFR 25.228(j).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Vehicle-Type Specific Rules Applicable to a Single Frequency Band

    Part 25 includes rules that are particular to the type of ESIM in a 
specific frequency band. For example, C-band ESVs and Ku-band ESAAs 
have requirements that are unique to the combination of type of earth 
station and the particular frequency band in which it operates. The 
Commission has never licensed C-band VMES and ESAA terminals, and did 
not propose to adopt rules for these terminals in this proceeding.
    C-band ESV Specific Requirements. The Commission proposed to retain 
and move several requirements that are unique to ESVs operating in the 
C-band to Sec.  25.228(h).\100\ Specifically, this proposal covered the 
provisions in paragraphs (a)(8), (a)(9), (a)(10), (a)(12), and (a)(13) 
of Sec.  25.221 as written. No commenter addressed this proposal, and 
we have relocated these provisions to Sec.  25.228 without changing the 
terms, as proposed.\101\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \100\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4252-53, para. 49-50. The Commission 
has an open proceeding exploring additional uses of ``mid-band 
spectrum,'' including the 3700-4200 MHz portion of the C-band. See 
Expanding Flexible Use in Mid-Band Spectrum Between 3.7 and 24 GHz, 
Notice of Inquiry, 32 FCC Rcd 6373 (2017); Expanding Flexible Use of 
the 3.7-4.2 GHz Band, Order and Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, FCC 
18-91 (rel. July 13, 2018) (Mid-band Proceeding). Operation of ESIMs 
will be subject to any changes to the Commission's rules made as a 
result of Commission action in the Mid-Band Proceeding.
    \101\ Section 25.228(h).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    As noted in the ESIMs NPRM, rules were adopted in the 2005 ESV 
Order to protect FS and FSS providers in the C-band while providing 
maximum flexibility to ESV operators.\102\ Specifically, Section 
25.221(a)(11) stated that ESVs while in motion do not receive 
interference protection from either terrestrial licensees or 
satellites. The Commission proposed to limit this provision only to 
terrestrial licensees. This updated provision is moved to Sec.  
25.228(h)(4). No commenters object to the proposal, which we adopt, to 
amend the second sentence of Non-Federal Government footnote NG180 of 
Sec.  2.106 consistent with this change. As noted above, this amended 
footnote is combined with NG181 and moved to NG457A for better 
organization and consistency.\103\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \102\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4252, fn 52.
    \103\ See Appendix B--Final Rules.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Ku-Band ESAA Specific Requirements. Section 25.227(a)(13) contains 
specific requirements for Ku-band ESAA providers operating in 
international airspace within line-of-sight of the territory of a 
foreign administration.\104\ These requirements are moved to Sec.  
25.228(i), with non-substantive word changes to harmonize the language 
to that of Sec.  25.228.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \104\ 47 CFR 25.227(a)(13).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Technical and Operational Requirements for Ka-band ESIMs

    The Commission did not propose any specific technical or 
operational requirements for ESVs, VMESs, or ESAAs operating in the 
conventional Ka-band. The Commission stated that such ESIMs would be 
authorized subject to the requirements in Sec.  25.115(n), which 
includes the requirement to comply with the earth station off-axis EIRP 
density limits in new Sec.  25.218(i), unless the ESIM operations are 
coordinated under Sec.  25.220.\105\ This is similar to the blanket-
licensing provisions for conventional Ka-band earth stations in Sec.  
25.138. The Commission proposed that conventional Ka-band ESVs would be 
required to comply with the requirements in new Sec.  25.228(e), 
conventional Ka-band VMESs would be required to comply with the 
requirement in new Sec.  25.228(f), and conventional Ka-band ESAAs 
would be required to comply with the requirements in new Sec.  
25.228(g). The Commission sought comment on any additional provisions 
that should be adopted for the operation of ESVs, VMESs, or ESAAs in 
the conventional Ka-band, such as minimum separation distances to 
protect the fixed and mobile services from ESV emissions, and/or power 
flux-density limits to protect the fixed and mobile services from ESAA 
emissions.\106\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \105\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4253, para. 52.
    \106\ Id.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The Commission also proposed to amend an existing footnote to the 
Table of Allocations to recognize the operation of ESIMs as an 
application of the FSS with primary status in the conventional Ka-
band.\107\ The Commission sought comment on its belief that ESIMs 
operating in the conventional Ka-band in accordance with its proposed 
rules would not pose more of a risk of interference to, nor require 
more interference protection from, other radiocommunication systems 
than other earth stations operating in the frequency band on a primary 
basis today.\108\ The Commission has taken similar steps to clarify the 
primary status of C-band and Ku-band ESIMs.\109\ Specifically, the 
Commission proposed to amend footnote NG55, which authorizes ESV, VMES, 
and ESAA use in the Ku-band, to include a portion of the Ka-band and to 
use the term ``ESIMs.'' \110\ With the exception of the areas discussed 
below in the bands, 18.6-18.8 GHz, 29.25-29.3 GHz and 28.35-28.6, 
commenters generally supported these proposed changes.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \107\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4253, para. 53.
    \108\ As stated in the NPRM, the Commission already blanket 
licenses ubiquitously-deployed fixed earth stations in the 
conventional Ka-band under Sec.  25.138; under the proposed rules 
ESIMs would have to comply with regulations designed to ensure that 
they do not cause more interference than fixed earth stations. Id. 
at 4253, fn 54.
    \109\ See, e.g., 47 CFR 2.106, footnotes NG55, NG180, and NG181. 
As noted above, for better organization, NG180 and NG181 are now 
combined into NG457A.
    \110\ See NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4253, para. 53.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    29.25-29.3 GHz Band. In the 29.25-29.5 GHz band, GSO FSS operations 
and feeder links for the NGSO Mobile Satellite Service (MSS systems) 
are designated for co-primary usage. Iridium operates feeder links for 
its NGSO MSS system in the 29.1-29.3

[[Page 53637]]

GHz band.\111\ Iridium urges the Commission not to authorize ESIMs 
operations in the 29.25-29.3 GHz band that is shared with Iridium 
feeder links.\112\ Iridium claims that the addition of ESIM operations 
with GSO FSS space stations in this band segment ``would create an 
impractically complex sharing environment'' with its NGSO-MSS feeder 
link operations.\113\ Iridium also argues that the satellite industry 
has not developed a method for determining appropriate exclusion zones 
around Iridium feeder-link earth stations, outside of which ESIM 
operations in the band segment will not cause harmful interference to 
Iridium satellite reception of feeder link uplink transmissions.\114\ 
Iridium has three such feeder-link earth stations in the United States 
that are currently authorized to operate in the 29.25-29.3 GHz band: 
One in Tempe, Arizona; one in Fairbanks, Alaska; and one in Wahiawa, 
Hawaii.\115\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \111\ Iridium Satellite LLC, IBFS File No. SES-MOD-20060907-
01680 (granted Mar. 29, 2007).
    \112\ Iridium Comments at 1-2. Iridium has since acknowledged 
that the Commission could allow ESVs and VMES in the band but 
requests that the Commission defer consideration of ESAAs operating 
in 29.25-29.3 GHz. Letters from Scott Blake Harris, Counsel to 
Iridium Communications, Inc. to Marlene H. Dortch, Secretary, 
Federal Communications Commission at 2 (filed Sept. 12, 2018) 
(Iridium Sept. 12 Ex Parte Letters); Letter from Robert M. McDowell, 
Counsel to Iridium Communications, Inc. to Marlene H. Dortch, 
Secretary, Federal Communications Commission at 1 (filed Sept. 19, 
2018) (Iridium Sept. 19 Javed Ex Parte Letter) and Letter from Scott 
Blake Harris, Counsel to Iridium Communications, Inc. to Marlene H. 
Dortch, Secretary, Federal Communications Commission at 2 (filed 
Sept. 20, 2018) (Iridium Sept. 20 Bender Ex Parte Letter) In 
response to Iridium's new proposal, Inmarsat, ViaSat and SES assert 
that there is no material difference in the potential impact from an 
aeronautical ESIM and other ESIMs on the ground. Letter from Jack 
Wengryniuk VP, Regulatory and Market Access Inmarsat, Inc., 
Christopher J. Murphy Associate General Counsel, Regulatory Affairs 
and Daryl T. Hunter Chief Technical Officer, Regulatory Affairs 
ViaSat, Inc., and Petra A. Vorwig Senior Legal and Regulatory 
Counsel SES Americom, Inc., to Marlene H. Dortch, Secretary, Federal 
Communications Commission (filed Sept. 18, 2018) (ESIM Operators 
Sept. 18 Joint Ex Parte Letter). See also Letter from John P. Janka 
and Elizabeth R. Park, Counsel to ViaSat, Inc. to Marlene H. Dortch, 
Secretary, Federal Communications Commission (filed Sept. 21, 2018) 
(ViaSat Sept. 21 Ex Parte Letter).
    \113\ Letter from Scott Blake Harris, Counsel to Iridium 
Communications, Inc. to Marlene H. Dortch, Secretary, Federal 
Communications Commission, at 1 (filed Sept. 25, 2017) (Iridium 
September 25, 2017 Ex Parte Letter).
    \114\ Id.
    \115\ These earth stations are licensed by the Commission under 
call signs E960131 (Tempe, AZ), E050282 and E060300 (Fairbanks, AK), 
which are licensed to Iridium, and E980049 (Wahiawa, HI), which is 
licensed to General Dynamics Satellite Communication Services, LLC.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In response to Iridium's proposal to bar ESIM operations in the 
29.25-29.3 GHz band, Inmarsat and ViaSat provided technical analyses of 
ESIM interference into Iridium feeder links that propose other 
approaches ESIM operators could take to coexist with Iridium in the 
subject band.\116\ These analyses are designed to demonstrate how ESIMs 
transmitting in the 29.25-29.3 GHz band would not exceed the Iridium 
feeder link interference protection criteria even while operating in 
the vicinity of Iridium feeder link earth stations. ViaSat's analysis 
considers six ESAAs operating at distances of 0 and 100 kilometers from 
an Iridium feeder link earth station, and claims that the carrier-to-
interference ratio of the Iridium feeder link signal is more than 30 dB 
for all but 0.0001 percent of the time.\117\ Inmarsat's analysis 
computes an exclusion zone around an Iridium feeder link earth station 
within which ESIMs would not be allowed to operate in the 29.25-29.3 
GHz band in order to avoid causing unacceptable interference to 
Iridium's feeder links.\118\ Iridium challenged the analyses conducted 
by ViaSat and Inmarsat, claiming that some of the underlying 
assumptions are incorrect, and insisted that ESIM operation in the 
29.25-29.3 GHz frequency band should not be allowed.\119\ In response, 
ViaSat refined its analysis referred to in the Inmarsat and ViaSat Nov. 
6 Ex Parte Letter, and claimed that, even under more conservative 
assumptions, no unacceptable interference would be caused to Iridium 
feeder links.\120\ Similarly, Inmarsat opposed Iridium's arguments and 
insisted that its previous analysis was valid and even 
conservative.\121\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \116\ Letter from M. Ethan Lucarelli, Director, Regulatory and 
Public Policy, and Giselle Creeser, Director, Regulatory, Inmarsat, 
Inc., and John P. Janka and Elizabeth R. Park, Counsel to ViaSat, 
Inc. to Marlene H. Dortch, Secretary, Federal Communications 
Commission (filed Nov. 6, 2017) (Inmarsat and ViaSat Nov. 6 Ex Parte 
Letter).
    \117\ Id.
    \118\ Id.
    \119\ Letter from Scott Blake Harris, Counsel to Iridium 
Communications, Inc. to Marlene H. Dortch, Secretary, Federal 
Communications Commission (filed Jan. 18, 2018) (Iridium Jan. 18 Ex 
Parte Letter).
    \120\ Letter from John P. Janka and Elizabeth R. Park, Counsel 
to ViaSat, Inc. to Marlene H. Dortch, Secretary, Federal 
Communications Commission (filed Feb. 5, 2018) (ViaSat Feb. 5 Ex 
Parte Letter).
    \121\ Letter from Giselle G. Creeser, Director, Regulatory, 
Inmarsat to Marlene H. Dortch, Secretary, Federal Communications 
Commission (filed Feb. 16, 2018) (Inmarsat Feb. 16 Ex Parte Letter).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Subsequently, Iridium argued that the 50 megahertz under discussion 
between 29.25-29.3 GHz corresponded only to 5% of the total 2,000 
megahertz of the conventional Ka-band spectrum where ESIM operation 
would be allowed and repeated its argument ``that the satellite 
industry has been unable to develop a method for coordinating NGSO 
feeder-links and ESIMs.'' \122\ In response, ViaSat argued that 
channels commonly used to provide broadband service to aircraft have 
bandwidths of 80, 160 or 320 megahertz, and that a prohibition on using 
the 50 megahertz in 29.25-29.3 GHz would therefore have a 
disproportionate impact on the capacity of the satellite network.\123\ 
In other words, according to ViaSat, decreasing the amount of spectrum 
available from 750 megahertz (in a 29.25-30 GHz band) to 700 megahertz 
(in a 29.3-30 GHz band) would preclude deployment of, for instance, a 
network that relies on two 320 megahertz channels and one 80 megahertz 
channel. Thus, ViaSat argues, the impact of not being able to use the 
band 29.25-29.3 GHz could be greater than simply reducing available 
spectrum by 50 megahertz, but could actually prevent providers from 
making full use of the conventional Ka-band. Later filings from Iridium 
and ViaSat further elaborated on their prior arguments.\124\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \122\ Letter from Scott Blake Harris, Counsel to Iridium 
Communications, Inc. to Marlene H. Dortch, Secretary, Federal 
Communications Commission (filed Mar. 22, 2018) (Iridium Mar. 22 Ex 
Parte Letter).
    \123\ Letter from John P. Janka and Elizabeth R. Park, Counsel 
to ViaSat, Inc. to Marlene H. Dortch, Secretary, Federal 
Communications Commission (filed Mar. 26, 2018) (ViaSat Mar. 26 Ex 
Parte Letter).
    \124\ Letter from Scott Blake Harris, Counsel to Iridium 
Communications, Inc. to Marlene H. Dortch, Secretary, Federal 
Communications Commission (filed Apr. 11, 2018) (Iridium Apr. 11 Ex 
Parte Letter); Letter from John P. Janka and Elizabeth R. Park, 
Counsel to ViaSat, Inc. to Marlene H. Dortch, Secretary, Federal 
Communications Commission (filed Apr. 26, 2018) (ViaSat Apr. 6 Ex 
Parte Letter); Letter from Scott Blake Harris, Counsel to Iridium 
Communications, Inc. to Marlene H. Dortch, Secretary, Federal 
Communications Commission (filed Jun. 28, 2018); Letter from John P. 
Janka and Elizabeth R. Park, Counsel to ViaSat, Inc. to Marlene H. 
Dortch, Secretary, Federal Communications Commission (filed Aug. 29, 
2018) (ViaSat Aug. 29 Ex Parte Letter); Iridium Sept. 12 Ex Parte 
Letters; ESIM Operators Sept. 18 Joint Ex Parte Letter; Iridium 
Sept. 19 Javed Ex Parte Letter and Iridium Sept. 20 Bender Ex Parte 
Letter.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    As an initial matter, coordination is required between GSO FSS and 
feeder links to MSS space stations that have co-primary status in the 
frequency band 29.25-29.3 GHz.\125\ The Commission has previously 
stated that NGSO MSS applicants bear the burden of showing

[[Page 53638]]

that a new NGSO MSS feeder-link facility can share with uplinks to GSO 
FSS space stations.\126\ The Commission is committed to being as 
spectrally efficient as possible, and has stressed that NGSO MSS uplink 
applicants must demonstrate that coordination with GSO FSS operation in 
the 29.25-29.3 GHz band is feasible, as required by paragraph (c) of 
Sec.  25.258.\127\ Based on the record before us, we do not believe 
that it is necessary to establish exclusion zones in order to protect 
Iridium space station feeder link reception. Iridium has previously 
acknowledged that the 29.25-29.3 GHz band is shared with GSO FSS 
networks.\128\ Moreover, in a subsequent grant modifying Iridium's 
license, the International Bureau clearly restated Iridium's co-primary 
status with respect to GSO FSS networks.\129\ Iridium questions the 
feasibility of implementing exclusion zones in which ESIMs must not 
operate in the 29.25-29.3 GHz band as a method of protecting Iridium 
feeder links. Instead, we observe that the current coordination 
provisions of Sec.  25.258(a) of our rules would require ESIM 
operations in 29.25-29.3 GHz, like those of any other GSO FSS earth 
stations operating in the band, to engage in coordination with 
Iridium.\130\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \125\ While allocation of a given frequency band to a particular 
service on a ``primary'' basis entitles that service to protection 
against harmful interference from stations of a ``secondary'' 
service, ``co-primary'' services such as the NGSO MSS and GSO FSS in 
the 29.25-29.5 GHz band share that band on an equal basis and may 
not cause harmful interference to each other. See 47 CFR 2.104(d), 
2.105(c).
    \126\ Rulemaking to Amend Parts 1, 2, 21, and 25 of the 
Commission's Rules to Redesignate the 27.5-29.5 GHz Frequency Band, 
to Reallocate the 29.5-30 GHz Frequency Band, to Establish Rules and 
Policies for Local Multipoint Distribution Service and for Fixed 
Satellite Service, First Report and Order, 11 FCC Rcd 19005, 19024, 
para. 42 (1996). In designating the 29.25-29.5 GHz bands for feeder 
links for NGSO MSS systems and GSO FSS uplinks, the Commission 
adopted specific provisions for licensing and coordination of NGSO 
MSS feeder links in the 29.25-29.5 GHz band. See 47 CFR 25.258 
(``Operators of NGSO MSS feeder link earth stations and GSO FSS 
earth stations in the band 29.25 to 29.5 GHz where both services 
have a co-primary allocation shall cooperate fully in order to 
coordinate their systems'').
    \127\ Rulemaking to Amend Parts 1, 2, 21, and 25 of the 
Commission's Rules to Redesignate the 27.5-29.5 GHz Frequency Band, 
to Reallocate the 29.5-30 GHz Frequency Band, to Establish Rules and 
Policies for Local Multipoint Distribution Service and for Fixed 
Satellite Service, Memorandum Opinion and Order, 16 FCC Rcd. 11436, 
11438-39, para. 7 (2001).
    \128\ Opposition of Iridium Constellation LLC, IBFS File No. 
SAT-MOD-20120813-00128 (filed Oct. 19, 2013), at 1 (stating that the 
modification Iridium seeks ``will not require additional bandwidth 
in the 29.25-29.3 GHz band shared with GSO FSS networks such as 
Hughes'').
    \129\ See Iridium Constellation LLC, Application for 
Modification of License to Authorize a Second-Generation NGSO MSS 
Constellation, 31 FCC Rcd 8675, 8676, para. 3 (``Iridium shares the 
29.25-29.3 GHz feeder uplink band on a co-primary basis with 
geostationary-satellite orbit (GSO) space stations in the fixed-
satellite service (FSS).'').
    \130\ See also 47 CFR 25.203(h).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We find that coordination under Sec.  25.258(a) will provide 
Iridium with sufficient interference protection. For example, ESIMs may 
seek to protect Iridium feeder link reception by not transmitting in 
the 29.25-29.3 GHz band when the transmission from the ESIM would pass 
through the region in space in which an Iridium satellite could be 
present at an elevation angle of five degrees or higher \131\ as viewed 
from any Iridium feeder link earth station transmitting in the 
band,\132\ and such transmission would exceed the interference 
protection criteria of the Iridium space station feeder link receiver. 
An ESIM could calculate when this would occur if it was programmed with 
the location of all of the Iridium feeder link earth stations in the 
band.\133\ More specifically, with this information programmed into an 
ESIM, along with the information and skills that an ESIM operator 
already possesses in order to correctly point its antenna (i.e., its 
own location, the location of the target GSO FSS space station, and the 
requisite computing ability), the ESIM operator could determine with 
sufficient precision when to cut off transmissions in order to comply 
with these interference protection criteria.\134\ Moreover, this 
mechanism responds to a worst-case Iridium protection scenario. In a 
less than worst case scenario, an ESIM would only need to avoid 
transmitting in the 29.25-29.3 GHz band when its transmitted signal 
would exceed the Iridium satellite interference protection criteria at 
the actual location of any Iridium satellite that is within the region 
in space described above, which presents more limited circumstances. If 
the ESIM could calculate the precise locations of the Iridium 
satellites in real time, rather than simply the region in space where 
the Iridium satellite could be present, it would only need to avoid 
transmitting in the band when its antenna beam would pass sufficiently 
near the specific Iridium satellite location as to interfere with 
Iridium satellite reception.\135\ While this is a more burdensome 
calculation for the ESIM to perform and requires the transmission of 
information about the Iridium satellite orbits, it would afford the 
ESIM more opportunities to transmit in the 29.25-29.3 GHz band than the 
worst-case approach described above, if the ESIM licensee chose to 
implement it. While the Commission acknowledges these potential methods 
for accomplishing coordination as plausible options, the Commission 
does not specifically endorse either method, and ESIMs operators and 
Iridium are free to explore other coordination mechanisms.\136\ If 
either ESIM operators or Iridium have concerns that coordination is not 
proceeding in good faith, or fail to come to an agreement, the matter 
can be brought to the attention of the Commission.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \131\ We choose that elevation angle to be five degrees or 
higher as viewed from any Iridium feeder link earth station 
transmitting in the band noting that the Iridium feeder link earth 
stations in the 29.25-29.3 GHz band are authorized to communicate 
with Iridium space stations only when the Iridium satellites are at 
an elevation angle of five degrees or more above the local 
horizontal plane, as viewed from the earth station. See, e.g. 
Iridium Satellite LLC, IBFS File No. SES-MOD-20060907-01680 (granted 
Mar. 29, 2007).
    \132\ The region in space in which an Iridium satellite could be 
present at an elevation angle of five degrees or higher as viewed 
from a particular Iridium feeder link earth station is a segment of 
the surface of a sphere, or ``cap,'' at the altitude of the Iridium 
satellites, which is approximately 780 kilometers. The size of this 
cap is such that the arc length from the point directly above the 
Iridium feeder link earth station to the edge of the cap is 
approximately 2800 kilometers. The interference threshold is 
calculated assuming a worst-case situation in which the Iridium 
space station receiving antenna has maximum gain towards the ESIM 
location.
    \133\ This information could be programmed into the ESIM 
software and updated as necessary by the ESIM's Network Control and 
Monitoring Center (NCMC).
    \134\ The calculations could take place in two steps. The first 
step would be to identify the point (point A) at which the direction 
of an ESIM transmission capable of causing interference intersects a 
sphere that is centered on the center of the Earth and having a 
radius equal to the radius of the Earth plus the altitude of the 
Iridium satellites. The second step would be to determine whether 
the distance from point A to the point on the same sphere (point B) 
that is directly over the Iridium feeder link earth station is less 
than approximately 2800 kilometers in arc length. As mentioned 
supra, 2800 kilometers is the arc length from point B to the 
boundary on the sphere beyond which the Iridium satellites are below 
five degrees elevation angle as viewed from the feeder link earth 
station. If the distance between points A and B is less than 2800 
kilometers, the ESIM emission could interfere with reception of the 
Iridium feeder uplink by an Iridium satellite located at point A.
    \135\ The ESIM operator's Network Control and Monitoring Center 
(NCMC) could periodically transmit the ephemeris data of the Iridium 
satellites to the ESIMs in the network to enable each ESIM to 
accurately calculate the locations of the Iridium satellites. 
Alternatively, it could transmit other data describing the Iridium 
satellite orbits that would reduce the computational load on the 
ESIMs.
    \136\ Iridium recommends that the Commission require ESIMs to 
comply with this specific coordination mechanism. Iridium Sept. 12 
Ex Parte Letters at 2; Sept. 18 Javed Ex Parte Letter at 2, and 
Iridium Sept. 20 Bender Ex Parte Letter at 2. While Inmarsat, ViaSat 
and SES, urge the Commission to maintain flexibility with respect to 
possible coordination mechanisms. ESIM Operators Sept. 18 Joint Ex 
Parte Letter at 3. See also ViaSat Sept. 21 Ex Parte Letter.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We recognize that coordination between ESIMs and NGSO space 
stations is more complex than coordination in static situations. 
However, as described in the paragraph above, we are of the view that 
coordination is feasible. In addition, any concerns about aggregate 
effect for

[[Page 53639]]

interference generated by large numbers of ESIMs can be addressed 
during coordination.\137\ Finally, we encourage the parties to act in 
good faith, consistent with our overall goal of promoting efficient use 
of spectrum.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \137\ With respect to long term interference, only one ESIM will 
be transmitting to a satellite receive beam in the same frequency 
band and polarization at any given time. With respect to short term 
interference, no ``time aggregation'' occurs if no ESIM is allowed 
to ever exceed the acceptable interference level associated with 
small percentages of time. See also ViaSat Aug. 29 Ex Parte Letter.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Iridium asserts that ``coordination with blanket-licensed fixed 
terminals has hardly been common, has been challenging to the limited 
extent that it has occurred, becomes increasingly complex with each 
additional system, and would make sharing with ESIMs even more 
difficult.'' \138\ However, the Commission has already granted blanket 
licenses for over five million earth stations to operate in the 29.25-
29.3 GHz band, each of which was required, pursuant to Sec.  25.258 of 
our rules, to coordinate with Iridium.\139\ These earth stations are 
not individually licensed and can be ubiquitously deployed. We are not 
persuaded that the relatively small increase in total number of earth 
stations licensed in the band that we expect will result from 
authorizing ESIM operations will lead to a significant increase in the 
use of the 29.25-29.3 GHz band, or will make coordination exceedingly 
difficult.\140\ Moreover, while interference into the Iridium feeder 
link receivers depends in part upon the number of simultaneously 
transmitting earth stations in the band, this number is determined 
primarily by the number of uplink spot beams on each GSO FSS satellite, 
not by the number of authorized earth stations. Thus, we will permit 
ESIMs to operate within the FSS in the 29.25-29.3 GHz band on a co-
primary basis, and without protection zones for MSS feeder link 
operations.\141\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \138\ Iridium Sept. 25, 2017 Ex Parte Letter at 2.
    \139\ See, e.g., HNS License Sub, LLC, Satellite Policy Branch 
Information: Action Taken, Public Notice, Report No. SAT-00905 (rel. 
Feb. 28, 2007) (IBFS File No. SES-LIC-20061226-02232).
    \140\ Compared to the small consumer earth stations with fixed 
antennas sold for satellite broadband access by companies such as 
Hughes Network Systems and ViaSat, ESIMs are several times more 
expensive, because they need a tracking antenna, and are therefore 
unlikely to be deployed in quantities remotely approaching the 
quantities in which those consumer earth stations have been and will 
continue to be deployed.
    \141\ Iridium also questions whether ESIMs should be recognized 
as an application of the FSS in the 29.25-29.3 GHz band. Iridium 
Sept. 12 Ex Parte Letter at 3 and Iridium Sept. 12 Bender Ex Parte 
Letter at 3. ESIMs are currently operating in several frequency 
bands where they have been treated as applications of the FSS (see 
NG55, NG180, NG 181) and have been able to do so maintaining the 
same interference environment created by the operation of fixed 
earth stations. Operation of ESIMs in the band 29.25-29.3 GHz is not 
any different than the operation in these other frequency bands.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    With respect to the conditions for authorizing operations in this 
band, SES Americom and its affiliate O3b, ViaSat and Inmarsat 
``recommend that the Commission adopt a policy statement acknowledging 
that it can license ESIM operations . . . where an ESIM applicant 
demonstrates that its operations will not have a significant impact on 
Iridium's licensed and actual feeder link operations.'' \142\ We 
decline to adopt such an approach, as the coordination requirement that 
currently applies to the operation of fixed earth stations is also 
applicable to ESIM operations. Therefore, as provided above, ESIM 
operations in 29.25-29.3 GHz will be subject to coordination with 
Iridium, under Sec.  25.258(a) of our rules, just like those of any 
other GSO FSS earth stations operating in the band.\143\ Because GSO 
FSS uplinks are co-primary with NGSO MSS feeder link uplinks in the 
29.25-29.3 GHz band, we expect both Iridium and the licensees of ESIM 
operations to coordinate with each other in good faith.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \142\ SES, O3b, Inmarsat, ViaSat Ex Parte Letter (filed Apr. 3, 
2018).
    \143\ See also 47 CFR 25.203(h).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    ESIMs in the 28.35-28.6 GHz Band. In the NPRM, the Commission also 
asked for comment on any possible effects that these proposed rules may 
have on existing or future services in adjacent frequency bands, such 
as the UMFUS operations in the 27.5-28.35 GHz bands.\144\ CTIA asserts 
that the Commission needs to ensure that adjacent terrestrial systems 
are protected from interference and that we confirm that ESIM out of 
band emission limits are governed by Sec.  25.202(f).\145\ The Global 
Mobile Suppliers Association (GSA) presented an analyses of 
interference caused by ESIM transmissions in the 28.35-28.6 GHz band 
into mobile service (MS) receivers operating below 28.35 GHz. GSA 
analyzed potential interference from ESIMs into MS receivers for all 
three types of ESIMs (VMES, ESV, and ESAA) for scenarios in which the 
ESIM is stationary and in motion, at various separation distances.\146\ 
GSA acknowledged that some of its assumptions result in worst-case 
interference scenarios.\147\ GSA computed both the interference-to-
noise ratio at the MS receivers and the combined frequency dependent 
rejection required by the combined ESIM transmitters and MS receivers 
to mitigate the interference. GSA states its calculations show that 
adjacent band interference above the limits it deems acceptable would 
occur in many of the scenarios it analyzed. In a later submission, GSA 
questioned the modeling used in the ViaSat analysis.\148\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \144\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4254, para 55.
    \145\ CTIA Reply Comments at 2 and 4.
    \146\ GSA Reply Comments at 2.
    \147\ GSA Reply Comments at 4.
    \148\ Letter from Reza Arefi, Chair, GSA Spectrum Group for 
North American Region, to Marlene H. Dortch, Secretary, Federal 
Communications Commission (filed June 11, 1018) (GSA June 11 Ex 
Parte Letter).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    ViaSat characterized GSA's analysis as ``a static analysis that was 
based on unrealistic worst-case assumptions and modeling'' and claimed 
that it would be preferable to rely on ``a statistical approach 
including Monte Carlo simulations and dynamic movement of stations, 
both 5G and ESIM, as well as realistic emission mask data for the 
ESIM.'' \149\ According to ViaSat's analysis, ``an earth station in 
motion (ESIM) operating at the lower end of the 28.35-28.6 GHz band 
with emissions complying with the FCC's 25.202(f) out-of-band emissions 
(OOBE) mask does not cause unacceptable interference to 5G systems 
operating at the upper edge of the adjacent 27.5-28.35 GHz band.'' 
ViaSat further states that ``GSA's reliance on a deterministic method, 
rather than dynamic scenarios, is contrary to the approach supported by 
its own members.'' \150\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \149\ ViaSat Mar. 26 Ex Parte Letter.
    \150\ Id. at 2. In a later submission, ViaSat addresses GSA's 
June 11 Ex Parte Letter. See Letter from John P. Janka and Elizabeth 
R. Park, Counsel to ViaSat, Inc. to Marlene H. Dortch, Secretary, 
Federal Communications Commission (filed Aug. 29, 2018) (ViaSat Aug. 
29 GSA Ex Parte Letter).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We do not express a view here about the relative merits of a 
deterministic and a dynamic approach. However, as noted above, the 
Commission has already blanket-licensed over five million fixed earth 
stations in the 28.35-28.6 GHz band, which can be ubiquitously deployed 
at unspecified locations anywhere within the United States. ESIMs in 
this band, like these existing fixed earth stations will be subject to 
the same out-of-band emission limits in Sec.  25.202(f) of our 
rules.\151\ Despite the large number of operating fixed earth stations, 
no commenter has challenged the adequacy of these OOBE limits to 
protect mobile services from interference from fixed earth stations. 
The number of ESIMs we expect to be deployed in the 28.35-28.6 GHz band 
is a smaller than the number of consumer earth stations with fixed 
antennas. Moreover, as noted above, a single ESIM will be transmitting 
to a satellite receive beam in the same frequency band and

[[Page 53640]]

polarization at any given time and therefore the number of interference 
sources that might cause aggregation is also limited by this fact. GSA 
has not made any concrete proposals for out-of-band emission limits 
specific to ESIMs. Nor did the Commission propose such limits. We 
therefore decline to adopt any out-of-band emission limits that would 
be specifically applicable to ESIMs at this time. ESIMs must comply 
with the out-of-band emission limits specified in Sec.  25.202(f).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \151\ 47 CFR 25.202(f).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    18.6-18.8 GHz Bands. The National Academy of Sciences, through its 
Committee on Radio Frequencies (CORF), expresses concern that ESIMs 
operating in the 18.6-18.8 GHz band could cause harmful interference to 
earth exploration satellite service (EESS) systems operating around 
18.7 GHz.\152\ CORF suggests that ESIMs might cause interference to 
EESS satellite receivers by transmitting upward toward EESS satellites 
in that range.\153\ CORF also suggests that the introduction of ESIMs 
could lead to increased use of the 18.6-18.8 GHz band by FSS networks 
for downlink transmissions to ESIM terminals, potentially resulting in 
increased reflections of satellite signals off the surface of the Earth 
and into EESS satellite receivers.\154\ In its reply comments, Boeing 
states that it reached out to CORF representatives to discuss possible 
misunderstandings regarding the nature of operations in the 18.6-18.8 
GHz band.\155\ Specifically, Boeing notes that given the fact that the 
18.3-18.8 GHz band is authorized for downlink transmissions from FSS 
satellites, there is no potential for ESIMs to transmit in an upward 
direction in this frequency segment.\156\ Second, Boeing pointed out, 
that the introduction of ESIMs in the 18.3-18.8 GHz band would not 
result in additional satellite downlink transmissions in this spectrum, 
it would just increase the number of fixed and mobile earth stations 
that would receive those signals on Earth.\157\ Further, as Boeing 
states, ``[t]he total number of FSS networks operating in the Ka-band 
using geostationary satellites has been governed primarily by the 
number of space stations that can successfully operate in a two-degree 
spacing environment, not any limits on end user demand for such 
capacity.'' \158\ We agree and will continue to be mindful of the need 
to protect the interests of the passive scientific users of the radio 
spectrum, including users of the Radio Astronomy Service (RAS) and EESS 
bands, as observed by CORF.\159\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \152\ CORF Comments at 6-10.
    \153\ CORF Comments at 9.
    \154\ Id. See also Boeing Reply Comments at 5.
    \155\ Boeing Reply Comments at 5-6.
    \156\ Id. at 5.
    \157\ Id. at 5-6.
    \158\ Id. at 6.
    \159\ CORF Comments at 1.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    CORF further suggests that the Commission should clarify the proper 
meaning of ``radio line of sight.'' \160\ Specifically, CORF states it 
is particularly important to note that in general, the radio and 
geometric horizons are different because of atmospheric 
refraction.\161\ Thus, for an atmosphere having a standard refractivity 
gradient, the effective radius of Earth is about four-thirds that of 
the actual radius, which corresponds to approximately 8,500 km.\162\ 
This increases the radio horizon by about 15 percent compared to the 
geometric horizon.\163\ Although we do not incorporate a definition of 
``radio line of sight'' in the rules we adopt here, we note that CORF's 
interpretation of radio line of sight is widely accepted.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \160\ CORF Comments at 5.
    \161\ Id.
    \162\ Id. at 5-6.
    \163\ Id. at 6.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Stratospheric Platforms. The Elefante Group asks the Commission to 
ensure that its stratospheric platforms would be considered ESAA to 
enable GSO satellite communications with its platforms.\164\ We note 
that our ESAA definition does not set an upper limit on the altitude of 
the aircraft communicating with a geostationary satellite. In addition, 
setting such a limit was not proposed or addressed in this proceeding. 
We therefore decline to generally state that stratospheric platforms 
are included in the definition of ESAA. Proposals for using FSS 
frequencies for communications between such platforms and geostationary 
satellites will be examined taking into consideration their specific 
characteristics.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \164\ Elefante Group Comments at 3. We also decline Elefante 
Group's request that the term ``aircraft'' as used within the 
definition of ESAA be interpreted broadly to include stratospheric 
platforms. Id. at 5.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Having addressed the concerns raised in the record regarding the 
expansion of ESIMs to the conventional Ka-band frequency bands, we find 
it in the public interest to adopt rule changes as proposed in the ESIM 
NPRM. Accordingly, we combine footnote NG55 with the relevant portion 
of NG52 into NG527A, and state: ``In the bands 11.7-12.2 GHz (space-to-
Earth), 14.0-14.5 GHz (Earth-to-space), 18.3-18.8 GHz (space-to-Earth), 
19.7-20.2 GHz (space-to-Earth), 28.35-28.6 GHz (Earth-to-space), and 
29.25-30.0 GHz (Earth-to-space), ESIMs may be authorized to communicate 
with geostationary satellites in the fixed-satellite service on a 
primary basis.'' We also amend Sec.  25.202(a)(8), (a)(10), and (a)(11) 
consistent with these changes to reflect all frequency bands.\165\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \165\ See Appendix B.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

ESIMs Application Requirements

    In the ESIMs NPRM, the Commission proposed significant 
reorganization of the part 25 rules governing all types of ESIMs. As 
explained in the ESIMs NPRM, application requirements for FSS earth 
station authorizations at fixed and temporary-fixed locations are in 
Sec.  25.115. However, the earth station license application 
requirements for ESVs, VMESs, and ESAAs are contained in paragraph (b) 
of Sec. Sec.  25.221, 25.222, 25.226, and 25.227. The Commission 
proposed to move the ESIM application requirements into Sec.  25.115 
for better integration of the rules, and we adopt this proposal. 
Specifically, the application requirements for a particular frequency 
band for all types of ESIM platforms will be contained in paragraphs 
(l) (for C-band), (m) (for Ku-band), and (n) (for Ka-band) of Section 
25.115. This restructuring is globally supported by the 
commenters.\166\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \166\ AC BidCo Comments at 1; Boeing Comments at 3; Inmarsat 
Comments at 2; Joint Commenters Comments at 1; ViaSat Comments at 4-
5.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Overview of Earth Station Licensing Rules. As explained in detail 
in the ESIMs NPRM, the part 25 licensing rules for FSS earth stations 
transmitting digital emissions to GSO FSS space stations provide two 
main options for obtaining a license for an earth station at a fixed 
location. The first option for obtaining such a license is to 
demonstrate compliance (in one of two ways) with default limits on 
emissions in directions other than toward the target satellite, which 
are referred to as off-axis EIRP density limits.\167\ These limits were 
developed to implement the Commission's GSO FSS space station two-
degree orbital spacing policy. They ensure earth station compatibility 
with networks using adjacent satellites in a two-degree orbital spacing 
environment by controlling the level of emissions from an earth station 
that can be transmitted toward adjacent satellite orbital locations. 
Under this option, there are, as indicated, two ways to show 
compliance. One alternative is to demonstrate that the earth station 
antenna gain pattern comports with the off-axis gain limits in Sec.  
25.209, and that the antenna input power density comports with limits 
in Sec.  25.212. The

[[Page 53641]]

Commission proposed to extend this option to ESIM applications. The 
other alternative, already available to ESIM applicants, is to 
demonstrate that the off-axis EIRP density of the earth station 
emissions comports with the applicable off-axis EIRP density limits in 
our ESIM rules.\168\ The second option to obtain a license is to 
demonstrate that the operations of the earth stations in the satellite 
network have been coordinated with operators of networks using adjacent 
satellites that would be affected by emissions of the earth stations 
that exceed the default off-axis EIRP density limits, under the 
coordination requirements of Sec.  25.220.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \167\ The off-axis EIRP density limits are set forth in 47 CFR 
25.218 for the C- and Ku-bands and in 47 CFR 25.138 for the Ka-band.
    \168\ These provisions are set forth in paragraphs (b)(1) of 
Sec. Sec.  25.221, 25.222, 25.226, and 25.227.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Commenters support the proposals that both of these licensing 
mechanisms be available to ESIM operators.\169\ Regarding the 
alternative of certifying compliance with the antenna pattern 
specifications in Sec.  25.209 and the antenna input power density 
requirements in Sec.  25.212, in addition to the current option of 
showing that the Sec.  25.218 off-axis EIRP density limits are met, AC 
BidCo states that there is consensus in favor of the Commission's plan 
to give ESIM applicants this flexibility.\170\ As explained in more 
detail below, we adopt the plan to continue to make both options for 
obtaining a license available for ESIMs and revise our rules to allow 
ESIM applicants to use both alternatives for showing compliance under 
the first option.\171\ As discussed above,\172\ we are eliminating 
antenna pointing accuracy requirements for ESIMs. Therefore, the 
showings regarding antenna pointing accuracy in paragraphs (b)(1) of 
Sec. Sec.  25.221, 25.222, 25.226, and 25.227 will no longer be 
required. Similarly, the ESIM application showing required for 
applicants proposing to meet the 0.2 degree antenna pointing accuracy 
requirement in paragraphs (b)(1)(iii) of Sec. Sec.  25.221, 25.222, 
25.226, and 25.227 is no longer relevant. Again, because we are 
eliminating the antenna pointing accuracy requirement, the requirement 
in the existing ESIM rules that an applicant proposing to operate with 
a maximum pointing error greater than 0.2 degrees must declare its 
maximum pointing error and show that at the maximum mispointing, the 
EIRP density limits are still met, is no longer necessary. Once our new 
rules go into effect, applicants will have two options to qualify for a 
license: Either comply with the off-axis EIRP density limits, and 
provide the information required by Sec. Sec.  25.115(l)-(n)(1), or 
coordinate, and provide the information required by Sec. Sec.  
25.115(l)-(n)(2). Additionally, we eliminate the pointing accuracy 
certification requirements of Sec. Sec.  25.221(b)(1)(iii), 
25.222(b)(1)(iii), 25.226(b)(1)(iii), and 25.227(b)(1)(iii), 
subparagraphs (A) and (B). We also eliminate the maximum mispointing 
declaration requirements that were in paragraphs (b)(1)(iv)(A) and the 
cessation of transmissions upon mispointing demonstration requirements 
in paragraphs (b)(1)(iv)(B) in Sec. Sec.  25.221, 25.222, 25.226, and 
25.227.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \169\ AC BidCo Comments at 3; Joint Commenters Comments at 3; AC 
BidCo Reply Comments at 2; ViaSat Reply Comments at 4.
    \170\ AC BidCo Reply Comments at 4.
    \171\ The Joint Commenters support the proposal to permit 
applicants to demonstrate technical compliance by either certifying 
compliance with (1) the off-axis antenna gain limits in Sec.  25.209 
and the antenna input power density limits in Sec.  25.212 or (2) 
the off-axis EIRP density limits set forth in Sec.  25.218. Joint 
Commenters at 3. See also AC BidCo at 3.
    \172\ See para. 0 supra.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We adopt, without commenter objection, the proposal to retain the 
requirement to provide the off-axis EIRP density showing required by 
Sec. Sec.  25.115(g)(1), and the coordination certifications required 
by Sec.  25.220(d), for applicants that will not meet the off-axis EIRP 
density limits. Paragraphs (b)(2), (b)(2)(i) and (b)(2)(ii) of 
Sec. Sec.  25.221, 25.222, 25.226, and 25.227 apply to an applicant 
proposing to operate with off-axis EIRP density in excess of the levels 
in paragraph (a)(1)(i) or (a)(3)(i) of these sections. Such an 
applicant will apply under the provisions in subparagraphs (a)(2) of 
Sec.  25.115(l)-(n), which contain substantially the same requirements 
for exhibits to its earth station application.
    The Commission further proposed to allow ESIM applicants the option 
of certifying compliance with the antenna pattern requirements of Sec.  
25.209 and the antenna input power density requirements of Sec.  
25.212, in lieu of the off-axis EIRP density limits in Sec.  
25.218.\173\ This is not a substantive change, because the off-axis 
EIRP density limits in Sec.  25.218, and those resulting from the 
summing of the antenna input power density limits in Sec.  25.212 and 
the antenna off-axis gain limits in Sec.  25.209 are the same as the 
off-axis EIRP density limits in the individual ESIM Sec. Sec.  25.221, 
25.222, 25.226, and 25.227.\174\ No commenters disagree with this 
proposal.\175\ For example, the Joint Commenters note that giving 
applicants the option of how to certify off-axis performance provides 
regulatory flexibility without sacrificing protection from harmful 
interference.\176\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \173\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4254, para. 58. For completeness, we 
note that cross-references in Sec.  25.212 are revised to reflect 
the changes to Sec. Sec.  25.138, 25.221, 25.222, 25.226, and 
25.227.
    \174\ In the 2015 Second Report and Order, the Commission 
adopted the same definition of [thgr] as described in the preceding 
paragraph in Sec.  25.209, the off-axis antenna gain limits rule. 
2015 Second Report and Order, 30 FCC Rcd 14713.
    \175\ See, e.g., AC BidCo Comments at 3; Boeing Comments at 4; 
Joint Commenter Comments at 3; ViaSat Comments at 8.
    \176\ Joint Commenter Comments at 3.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Paragraphs (b)(2)(iii) and (b)(2)(iv) of Sec. Sec.  25.221, 25.222, 
25.226, and 25.227 require detailed showings that each ESAA transmitter 
in the system will automatically cease or reduce emissions within 100 
milliseconds after generating EIRP density exceeding the applicable 
limits. In the rules proposed in the ESIMs NPRM in Sec.  25.115(l)-
(n)(3)(i), the applicant would have been required to show how the 
transmitter will detect exceedance of the off-axis EIRP density mask 
and reduce the power of or shut down one or more transmitters within 
100 milliseconds of receiving a command to do so from the system's 
network control and monitoring center, if the aggregate off-axis EIRP 
spectral-densities of the transmitter or transmitters exceed the 
relevant off-axis EIRP spectral-density limits.
    Many commenters argue against the demonstration requirement in our 
proposal. For example, Inmarsat argues that such demonstration at the 
application phase that would produce the necessary ``detailed 
showings'' would be impractical and burdensome.\177\ Inmarsat submits 
that applicants should be able to certify compliance in their 
applications, just like the requirements of Sec.  25.227.\178\ 
Similarly, the Joint Commenters state they cannot support the proposal, 
as written, to include a requirement to demonstrate how the cessation 
requirement will be met.\179\ Boeing also states that it concurs with 
Intelsat and Inmarsat's explanation that it would be appropriate for 
the Commission to permit ESIMs applicants to certify that their earth 
station terminals will comply with the Commission's shut down 
requirements to ensure compliance with the off-axis power spectral 
density limits, rather than require a ``demonstration'' of such 
compliance.\180\ Such a certification requirement would be consistent 
with the Commission's existing rules regarding antenna pointing and 
cessation requirements and therefore should be adopted.\181\ Hughes 
provides suggested text for

[[Page 53642]]

certification rather than demonstration.\182\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \177\ Inmarsat Comments at 4.
    \178\ Id.
    \179\ Joint Commenters at 4.
    \180\ Boeing Comments at 2.
    \181\ Id.
    \182\ Hughes Comments at 4-5.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    After further consideration, we agree with commenters that a 
certification is sufficient for the purposes of this application 
requirement. We have used a certification process elsewhere in our 
rules and it has proven effective at ensuring that licensees satisfy 
the technical requirements of our rules.\183\ Thus, Sections 25.115(l)-
(n)(3)(i) will require all applicants to: ``provide a certification 
that the ESIM system is capable of detecting and automatically ceasing 
emissions when an individual ESIM transmitter exceeds the relevant off-
axis EIRP spectral density limits specified in Sec.  25.218, or the 
limits provided to the target satellite operator for operation under 
Sec.  25.220.''
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \183\ See e.g., 47 CFR 25.140(a) (requiring GSO FSS space 
station applications to contain certifications of compliance with 
certain technical requirements, without submission of any backup 
evidence or demonstrations).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The certification for a C-band ESV system in Sec.  25.221(b)(3)(v) 
regarding compliance with the power limits in Sec.  25.204(h) is 
eliminated as no longer necessary. However, we retain a technical and 
operational requirement to meet the power limits in Sec.  25.204(h) in 
redesignated Sec.  25.228(h)(7).
    As proposed, we note that the requirements that were in paragraphs 
(b)(5) of Sec. Sec.  25.226 and 25.227 that any VMES or ESAA applicant 
filing for a terminal or system and planning to use a contention 
protocol must include in its application a certification that its 
contention protocol use will be reasonable is substantially the same as 
the requirement in Sec.  25.115(i), which we construe as applying to 
applications for ESIMs.\184\ Therefore, we will not duplicate the 
language from Sec. Sec.  25.226(b)(5) and 25.227(b)(5) in the ESIM 
rules brought into Sec.  25.115.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \184\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4356, para. 65.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Further, as proposed, we delete the requirements that were in 
paragraphs (b)(8) of Sec. Sec.  25.226 and 25.227 that VMES and ESAA 
applicants must submit a radio frequency hazard analysis determining 
via calculation, simulation, or field measurement, whether ESAA 
terminals, or classes of terminals, will produce power densities that 
will exceed the Commission's radio frequency exposure criteria as 
duplicative of Sec.  1.1307(b) of the Commission's rules.\185\ 
Similarly, we delete paragraphs (b)(7) of Sec. Sec.  25.221 and 25.222 
and Sec.  25.226(b)(9) as duplicative of 25.115(k)(1), which we 
construe as applicable to ESIM applications.\186\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \185\ 47 CFR 1.1307(b).
    \186\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4256, para. 66.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Paragraphs (b)(7) of Sec. Sec.  25.226 and 25.227 require that any 
VMES or ESAA applicant must include in its application a certification 
that it will comply with the requirements of paragraphs (a)(6) of those 
sections, and paragraphs (a)(9), (a)(10), and (a)(11) of Sec.  25.227. 
The Commission invited comment as to whether the certification 
requirement serves a useful purpose, or whether the Commission should 
eliminate it, because Commission licensees are required to comply with 
all applicable Commission rules. AC BidCo comments that ``eliminating 
this certification requirement will have no effect on the substantive 
technical and operational standards that an ESIM operator must meet.'' 
\187\ Because licensees will be required to comply with these 
provisions even without the certification requirement, we agree, and 
will no longer require such a certification.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \187\ AC BidCo Comments at 4.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We proposed to remove Sec.  25.226(b)(8), which states, in part, 
that all VMES applicants must demonstrate that their VMES terminals are 
capable of automatically ceasing transmissions upon the loss of 
synchronization or within 5 seconds upon loss of reception of the 
satellite downlink signal, whichever is the shorter timeframe. This is 
redundant with Sec.  25.271(g), which applies by its terms to all 
transmitting earth stations. It is not necessary to duplicate the 
provisions in Sec.  25.271(g) in a rule intended specifically for 
ESIMs. Additionally, the requirement for radiation hazard mitigation 
that had been included in Sec.  25.226(b)(8) is incorporated into Sec.  
25.228(d), as explained above.
    Finally, as proposed, we retain the requirements in paragraphs 
(b)(4) of Sec. Sec.  25.221, 25.222, 25.222, 25.226, and 25.227, in 
paragraphs (b)(5) of Sec. Sec.  25.221 and 25.222 and (b)(6) of 
Sec. Sec.  25.226 and 25.227, and in paragraphs (b)(6) of Sec. Sec.  
25.221 and 25.222 and (b)(8) of Sec. Sec.  25.226 and 25.227, and move 
those requirements into paragraphs (l)-(n) of Sec.  25.115.\188\ 
Inmarsat supports this proposal as promoting uniformity and 
efficiency.\189\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \188\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4256-57, para. 69.
    \189\ Inmarsat Comments at 4.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Merging Sec. Sec.  25.130 and 25.131 Into Sec.  25.115

    We adopt the Commission's proposals to move the requirements in 
Sec.  25.130 into Sec.  25.115(a)(5)-(10).\190\ We note that there is a 
difference between what the Commission proposed in the ESIMs NPRM and 
the version that we adopt in this Report and Order because Sec.  25.130 
was updated by the Spectrum Frontiers Second Report and Order.\191\ The 
changes to Sec.  25.130(b) are brought into Sec.  25.115(a)(6)(i)-(iv), 
and the Note to paragraph (g) is now incorporated as a Note to (a)(10). 
Further, the Note is revised to eliminate cross-references to the 
individual ESIM Sec. Sec.  25.221, 25.222, 25.226, and 25.227, and is 
revised to cross-reference the appropriate paragraphs of Sec.  25.115.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \190\ A list of the existing paragraphs in Sec.  25.130 and the 
corresponding proposed paragraphs in Sec.  25.115 appears in Table 1 
of Appendix C.
    \191\ Use of Spectrum Bands Above 24 GHz For Mobile Radio 
Services et al., Second Report and Order, Second Further Notice of 
Proposed Rulemaking, Order on Reconsideration, and Memorandum 
Opinion and Order, 32 FCC Rcd 10988 (2017).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Further, the last sentence of Sec.  25.130(a) previously stated 
that ``applicants that are not required to submit applications on Form 
312EZ'' must submit the information in subparagraphs (1)-(5) of Sec.  
25.130(a) as an attachment to their applications. The use of Form 312EZ 
is not mandatory, but rather, use is an option available to applicants 
under some circumstances. Therefore, as proposed, we change the word 
``required'' to ``permitted''. We reserve Sec.  25.130. Cross-
references to this section are redirected to the appropriate paragraphs 
in Sec.  25.115.
    Similarly, we move all requirements regarding receive-only earth 
stations, with minor revisions, from Sec.  25.131 into Sec.  
25.115(b).\192\ We reserve Sec.  25.131, and redirect any cross-
references to this section to the appropriate paragraphs in Sec.  
25.115.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \192\ A list of the existing paragraphs in Sec.  25.131 and the 
corresponding proposed paragraphs in Sec.  25.115 appears in Table 2 
of Appendix C.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Other Miscellaneous Changes to Sec.  25.115

    We adopt the proposals to reorganize and remove sections that are 
redundant or better included elsewhere in the reorganized 
sections.\193\ Specifically, we incorporate the language regarding 
instructions for electronically filing from Sec.  25.115(a)(4), into 
Sec.  25.115(a)(1). We revise the cross-references in Sec.  
25.115(k)(1) to Sec. Sec.  25.221, 25.226, and 25.227 to refer instead 
to the proposed paragraphs (l)-(n) of Sec.  25.115, consistent with the 
unifying of the application requirements into Sec.  25.115. Similarly, 
we adopt non-substantive changes to Sec.  25.115(k)(2). The proposed 
changes to 25.115(c)(1) discussed in the ESIMs NPRM were previously 
adopted in the NGSO FSS Report and Order.\194\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \193\ NPRM, 32 FCC Rcd at 4257, para. 72.
    \194\ Update to Parts 2 and 25 Concerning Non-Geostationary, 
Fixed-Satellite Service Systems and Related Matters, Report and 
Order and Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, 32 FCC Rcd 7809, 
Appendix A (2017) (NGSO FSS Order or NGSO FSS FNPRM).

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

[[Page 53643]]

Changes Required in Additional Sections of the Commission's Rules: 
Sec. Sec.  25.129, 25.133, 25.140, 25.202, 25.204, 25.209, and 25.258 
and Notes to the Table of Frequency Allocations

    The Commission proposed several additional changes in other 
sections of part 25 to harmonize the various rule sections involving 
ESIMs. We are updating cross-references to sections which are being 
eliminated or reorganized accordingly. Specifically, we eliminate 
references to Sec. Sec.  25.221, 25.222, 25.226 and 25.227 in 
Sec. Sec.  25.202(a)(8) and 25.140(d)(1). Section 25.140(d)(1) also has 
an updated reference to Sec.  25.218. Additionally, we update the 
cross-reference to Sec.  25.138(a) in Sec.  25.140(a)(3)(iii) to point 
to Sec.  25.218(i), which will contain the off-axis EIRP density limits 
contained in Sec.  25.138(a). Similarly, we revise the cross-reference 
to Sec.  25.138(a) in Sec.  25.258(b) regarding operation of 
ubiquitously deployed GSO FSS earth stations in the 29.25-29.5 GHz 
frequency band to point to Sec.  25.218(i). We are also eliminating 
cross-references to Sec. Sec.  25.221, 25.222, 25.226, and 25.227 in 
Sec. Sec.  25.115(g)(1)(iv) and (vii). Further, we are eliminating 
cross-references to Sec.  25.138, e.g. from Sec. Sec.  
25.115(c)(3)(i)(B), (c)(3)(ii), and 25.132(d). In Sec.  25.133(d), the 
reference to Sec.  25.131 is updated to reflect the requirement being 
reorganized into Sec.  25.115(b).
    Because Sec.  25.138 is being removed and reserved, we remove the 
reference to it in Sec.  25.129(c).\195\ For the same reasons, we 
remove references to Sec.  25.221 in Sec.  25.140(a)(3)(i), and to 
Sec. Sec.  25.222, 25.226, and 25.227 in Sec.  25.140(a)(3)(ii).\196\ 
For completeness, we also note that we eliminate similar obsolete 
cross-references in Sec.  25.220(a).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \195\ See Appendix B.
    \196\ Id.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We revise the cross-references to Sec. Sec.  25.130 and 25.131 in 
Sec.  25.209(c)(1) to reflect the move of the particular requirements 
to Sec. Sec.  25.115(b)(2) and (b)(4). Similarly, we revise Sec.  
25.209(f) to eliminate the reference to Sec. Sec.  25.138, 25.221, 
25.222, 25.226, and 25.227, and to refer instead to Sec.  25.218, as 
well as other clarifying changes. These changes are necessary to 
reflect the changes to requirements for demonstrations for a non-
conforming antenna. We also consolidate the requirements in paragraphs 
(i)-(k) of Sec.  25.204 into Sec.  25.228(j)(2).\197\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \197\ A list of the existing paragraphs in Sec.  25.204 and the 
corresponding proposed paragraphs in Sec.  25.228 appears in Table 6 
of Appendix C.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In addition to moving the ESIM-related sentence of footnote NG52 of 
the Table of Frequency Allocations into NG527A \198\ that language in 
footnote NG52 is also revised to refer to ESIMs rather than ESVs, 
VMESs, and ESAAs to be consistent with the terminology adopted in this 
Report and Order.\199\ Finally, footnote US133 of the Table of 
Frequency Allocation contained cross-references to sub-paragraphs of 
Sec. Sec.  25.226 and 25.227 that are updated to point to the 
appropriate sub-paragraphs of Sec.  25.228.\200\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \198\ 47 CFR 2.106.
    \199\ See Appendix B--Final Rules.
    \200\ We also adopt the proposal to add footnotes 5.484B and 
5.527A, which relate to ESIM use and were adopted in WRC-15, to the 
International Table.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

Procedural Matters

    In this document, we have assessed the effects of reducing the 
application burdens of GSO FSS ESIM applicants, and find that doing so 
will serve the public interest and is unlikely to directly affect 
businesses with fewer than 25 employees.
    Congressional Review Act. The Commission sent a copy of this Report 
and Order to Congress and the Government Accountability Office pursuant 
to the Congressional Review Act, see 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A).

Conclusion and Ordering Clauses

    It is ordered, pursuant to sections 4(i), 7(a), 303, 308(b), and 
316 of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, 47 U.S.C. 154(i), 
157(a), 303, 308(b), 316, that this Report and Order is adopted, the 
policies, rules, and requirements discussed herein are adopted, parts 2 
and 25 of the Commission's rules are amended as set forth in Appendix 
B, and this Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking is adopted.
    It is further ordered that the rules and requirements adopted in 
the Report and Order will become effective October 8, 2019.
    It is further ordered that the Commission's Consumer and 
Governmental Affairs Bureau, Reference Information Center, sent a copy 
of this Report and Order to the Chief Counsel for Advocacy of the Small 
Business Administration.
    It is further ordered that the Commission's Consumer and 
Governmental Affairs Bureau, Reference Information Center, sent a copy 
of this Report and Order to Congress and the Government Accountability 
Office pursuant to the Congressional Review Act, see 5 U.S.C. 
801(a)(1)(A).

List of Subjects

47 CFR Part 2

    Radio, Table of Frequency Allocations.

47 CFR Part 25

    Administrative practice and procedure, Earth stations, Satellites.

Federal Communications Commission.
Katura Jackson,
Federal Register Liaison Officer, Office of the Secretary.

Final Rules

    For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Federal 
Communications Commission amends 47 CFR parts 2 and 25 as follows:

PART 2--FREQUENCY ALLOCATIONS AND RADIO TREATY MATTERS; GENERAL 
RULES AND REGULATIONS

0
1. The authority citation for part 2 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  47 U.S.C. 154, 302a, 303, and 336, unless otherwise 
noted.


0
2. Amend Sec.  2.106, the Table of Frequency Allocations, by:
0
a. Revising pages 41, 44, 48, 49, 50, 52, and 55;
0
b. Adding footnotes 5.484B and 5.527A in the list of International 
Footnotes;
0
c. Revising footnote US133 in the list of United States (US) Footnotes; 
and
0
d. In the list of non-Federal Government (NG) Footnotes by:
0
i. Revising footnote NG52;
0
ii. Removing footnotes NG55, NG180, and NG181; and
0
iii. Adding footnotes NG457A and NG527A.
    The revisions and additions read as follows:


Sec.  2.106  Table of Frequency Allocations.

* * * * *
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BILLING CODE 6712-01-C
* * * * *

International Footnotes

* * * * *
    5.484B Resolution 155 (WRC-15) shall apply. (WRC-15)
* * * * *
    5.527A The operation of earth stations in motion communicating with 
the FSS is subject to Resolution 156 (WRC-15). (WRC-15)
* * * * *

United States (US) Footnotes

* * * * *
    US133 In the bands 14-14.2 GHz and 14.47-14.5 GHz, the following 
provisions shall apply to the operations of Earth Stations Aboard 
Aircraft (ESAA):
    (a) In the band 14-14.2 GHz, ESAA licensees proposing to operate 
within radio line-of-sight of the coordinates specified in 47 CFR 
25.228(j)(1) are subject to prior coordination with NTIA in order to 
minimize harmful interference to the ground terminals of NASA's 
Tracking and Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS).
    (b) In the band 14.47-14.5 GHz, operations within radio line-of-
sight of the radio astronomy stations specified in 47 CFR 25.228(j)(3) 
are subject to coordination with the National Science Foundation in 
accordance with the requirements set forth in that rule section.
* * * * *

Non-Federal Government (NG) Footnotes

* * * * *
    NG52 Except as provided for by NG527A, use of the bands 10.7-11.7 
GHz (space-to-Earth) and 12.75-13.25 GHz (Earth-to-space) by 
geostationary satellites in the fixed-satellite service shall be 
limited to international systems, i.e., other than domestic systems.
* * * * *
    NG457A Earth stations on vessels (ESVs), as regulated under 47 CFR 
part 25, are an application of the fixed-satellite service and the 
following provisions shall apply:
    (a) In the band 3700-4200 MHz (space-to-Earth), ESVs may be 
authorized to communicate with geostationary satellites and, while 
docked, may be coordinated for up to 180 days, renewable. ESVs in 
motion are subject to the condition that these earth stations may not 
claim protection from transmissions of non-Federal stations in the 
fixed service.
    (b) In the band 5925-6425 MHz (Earth-to-space), ESVs may be 
authorized to communicate with geostationary satellites on a primary 
basis.
* * * * *
    NG527A Earth Stations in Motion (ESIMs), as regulated under 47 CFR 
part 25, are an application of the fixed-satellite service (FSS) and 
the following provisions shall apply:
    (a) In the bands 10.95-11.2 GHz (space-to-Earth) and 11.45-11.7 GHz 
(space-to-Earth), ESIMs may be authorized to communicate with 
geostationary satellites, subject to the condition that these earth 
stations may not claim protection from transmissions of non-Federal 
stations in the fixed service.
    (b) In the bands 11.7-12.2 GHz (space-to-Earth), 14.0-14.5 GHz 
(Earth-to-space), 18.3-18.8 GHz (space-to-Earth), 19.7-20.2 GHz (space-
to-Earth), 28.35-28.6 GHz (Earth-to-space), and 29.25-30.0 GHz (Earth-
to-space), ESIMs may be authorized to communicate with geostationary 
satellites on a primary basis.
* * * * *

PART 25--SATELLITE COMMUNICATIONS

0
3. The authority citation for part 25 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 47 U.S.C. 154, 301, 302, 303, 307, 309, 310, 319, 
332, 605, and 721, unless otherwise noted.

0
4. Amend Sec.  25.103 by:
0
a. Revising the definition of ``Blanket license'';
0
b. Removing the definition of ``Earth Stations Aboard Aircraft (ESAA)'' 
and adding in its place a definition for ``Earth Station Aboard 
Aircraft (ESAA)'';
0
b. Adding definitions in alphabetical order for ``Earth Station in 
Motion (ESIM)'' and ``Network Control and Monitoring Center''; and
0
 c. Revising the definitions of ``Routine processing or licensing'', 
``Two-degree compliant space station'', and ``Vehicle-Mounted Earth 
Station (VMES)''.
    The revisions and additions read as follows:


Sec.  25.103  Definitions.

* * * * *
    Blanket license. A license for:
    (1) Multiple earth stations in the FSS or MSS, or for SDARS 
terrestrial repeaters, that may be operated anywhere within a 
geographic area specified in the license; or
    (2) For multiple space stations in non-geostationary-orbit.
* * * * *
    Earth Station Aboard Aircraft (ESAA). An earth station operating 
aboard an aircraft that receives from and transmits to geostationary-
orbit Fixed-Satellite Service space stations.
* * * * *
    Earth Station in Motion (ESIM). A term that collectively designates 
ESV, VMES and ESAA earth stations, as defined in this section.
* * * * *
    Network Control and Monitoring Center (NCMC). An NCMC, as used in 
Part 25, is a facility that has the capability to remotely control 
earth stations operating as part of a satellite network or system.
* * * * *
    Routine processing or licensing. Expedited processing of unopposed 
applications for earth stations in the FSS communicating with GSO space 
stations that satisfy the criteria in Sec.  25.211(d), Sec.  25.212(c), 
Sec.  25.212(d), Sec.  25.212(e), Sec.  25.212(f), Sec.  25.218, or 
Sec.  25.223(b), include all required information, are consistent with 
all Commission rules, and do not raise any policy issues. Some, but not 
all, routine earth station applications are eligible for an autogrant 
procedure under Sec.  25.115(a)(3).
* * * * *
    Two-degree-compliant space station. A GSO FSS space station 
operating in the conventional or extended C-bands, the conventional or 
extended Ku-bands, or the conventional Ka-band within the limits on 
downlink EIRP density or PFD specified in Sec.  25.140(a)(3) and 
communicating only with earth stations operating in conformance with 
routine uplink parameters specified in Sec.  25.211(d), Sec.  
25.212(c), (d), (e), or (f), or Sec.  25.218.
    Vehicle-Mounted Earth Station (VMES). An earth station, operating 
from a motorized vehicle that travels primarily on land, that receives 
from and transmits to geostationary orbit Fixed-Satellite Service space 
stations and operates within the United States.

0
5. Amend Sec.  25.115 by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2)(iii);
0
b. Removing and reserving paragraph (a)(4);
0
c. Adding paragraphs (a)(5) through (10);
0
d. Revising paragraphs (b), (c)(1), (c)(2)(i)(A), (c)(3)(i)(B), 
(c)(3)(ii), (e)(1), (g)(1)(vii), and (k); and
0
e. Adding paragraphs (l), (m), and (n).
    The revisions and additions read as follows:


Sec.  25.115  Applications for earth station authorizations.

    (a)(1) Transmitting earth stations. Commission authorization must 
be

[[Page 53652]]

obtained for authority to operate a transmitting earth station. 
Applications for transmitting earth stations must be filed 
electronically through the International Bureau Filing System (IBFS) in 
accordance with the applicable provisions of part 1, subpart Y of this 
chapter. Applications must be filed electronically on FCC Form 312, 
Main Form and Schedule B, and include the information specified in this 
section, except as set forth in paragraph (a)(2) of this section.
    (2) * * *
    (iii) The application meets all relevant criteria in Sec.  25.211 
or Sec.  25.212 or includes information filed pursuant to paragraph 
(g)(1) of this section indicating that off-axis EIRP density from the 
proposed earth stations will not exceed relevant levels specified in 
Sec.  25.218; and
* * * * *
    (5) Applicants that are not permitted to submit applications under 
paragraph (a)(2) of this section on Form 312EZ, must submit, as an 
attachment to their application, the following information to be used 
as an ``informative'' in the public notice issued under Sec.  25.151:
    (i) A detailed description of the service to be provided, including 
frequency bands and satellites to be used. The applicant must identify 
either the specific satellite(s) with which it plans to operate, or the 
eastern and western boundaries of the arc it plans to coordinate.
    (ii) The diameter or equivalent diameter of the antenna.
    (iii) Proposed power and power density levels.
    (iv) Identification of any random access technique, if applicable.
    (v) Identification of a specific rule or rules for which a waiver 
is requested.
    (6)(i) Applicants for earth stations transmitting in frequency 
bands shared with equal rights between terrestrial and space services 
must provide a frequency coordination analysis in accordance with Sec.  
25.203(b) and must include any notification or demonstration required 
by any other relevant provision in Sec.  25.203.
    (ii) Applicants for user transceiver units associated with the NVNG 
MSS must provide the information required by Sec.  25.135.
    (iii) Applicants for 1.6/2.4 GHz MSS user transceivers must 
demonstrate that the transceivers will operate in compliance with 
relevant requirements in Sec.  25.213.
    (iv) Applicants for earth stations licensed in accordance with 
Sec.  25.136 must demonstrate that the transmitting earth stations will 
meet the relevant criteria specified in that section, including any 
showings required under Sec.  25.136(a)(4), (c), (d)(4), and/or (e)(4).
    (7) In those cases where an applicant is filing a number of 
essentially similar applications, showings of a general nature 
applicable to all of the proposed stations may be submitted in the 
initial application and incorporated by reference in subsequent 
applications.
    (8) Transmissions of signals or programming to non-U.S. licensed 
satellites, and to and/or from foreign points by means of U.S.-licensed 
fixed satellites may be subject to restrictions as a result of 
international agreements or treaties. The Commission will maintain 
public information on the status of any such agreements.
    (9) Applicants seeking to operate in a shared government/non-
government band must provide the half-power beam width of their 
proposed earth station antenna, as an attachment to their applications.
    (10) With the exception of applications for blanket-licensed earth 
station networks filed pursuant to Sec.  25.115(c) or Sec.  25.218; 
applications for conventional Ka-band hub stations filed pursuant to 
Sec.  25.115(e); applications for NGSO FSS gateway earth stations filed 
pursuant to Sec.  25.115(f); applications for individually licensed 
earth stations filed pursuant to Sec.  25.136; applications for ESIMs 
filed pursuant to Sec.  25.115(l), Sec.  25.115(m), or Sec.  25.115(n); 
or applications for 29 GHz NGSO MSS feeder-link stations in a complex 
as defined in Sec.  25.257, parties may apply, either in an initial 
application or an application for modification of license, for 
operating authority for multiple transmitting FSS earth stations that 
are not eligible for blanket or network licensing under another section 
of this part in the following circumstances:
    (i) The antennas would transmit in frequency bands shared with 
terrestrial services on a co-primary basis and the antennas would be 
sited within an area bounded by 1 second of latitude and 1 second of 
longitude.
    (ii) The antennas would transmit in frequency bands allocated to 
FSS on a primary basis and there is no co-primary allocation for 
terrestrial services, and the antennas would be sited within an area 
bounded by 10 seconds of latitude and 10 seconds of longitude.
    (b) Receive-only earth stations. Except as provided in paragraphs 
(b)(1) and (8) of this section, applications for licenses for receive-
only earth stations must be submitted on FCC Form 312, Main Form and 
Schedule B, accompanied by any required exhibits and the information 
described in paragraphs (a)(5)(i) through (v) of this section. Such 
applications must be filed electronically through the International 
Bureau Filing System (IBFS) in accordance with the applicable 
provisions of part 1, subpart Y of this chapter.
    (1) Receive-only earth stations in the FSS that operate with U.S.-
licensed space stations, or with non-U.S.-licensed space stations that 
have been duly approved for U.S. market access, may be registered with 
the Commission in order to protect them from interference from 
terrestrial microwave stations in bands shared co-equally with the 
Fixed Service in accordance with the procedures of Sec. Sec.  25.203 
and 25.251, subject to the stricture in Sec.  25.209(c).
    (2) Licensing or registration of receive-only earth stations with 
the Commission confers no authority to receive and use signals or 
programming received from satellites. See Section 705 of the 
Communications Act. 47 U.S.C. 605.
    (3) Applications for registration must be accompanied by the 
coordination exhibit required by Sec.  25.203 and any other required 
exhibits.
    (4) Complete applications for registration will be placed on public 
notice for 30 days and automatically granted if no objection is 
submitted to the Commission and served on the applicant. Additional 
pleadings are authorized in accordance with Sec.  1.45 of this chapter.
    (5) The registration of a receive-only earth station results in the 
listing of an authorized frequency band at the location specified in 
the registration. Interference protection levels are those agreed to 
during coordination.
    (6) Reception of signals or programming from non-U.S. satellites 
may be subject to restrictions as a result of international agreements 
or treaties. The Commission will maintain public information on the 
status of any such agreements.
    (7) Registration term: Registrations for receive-only earth 
stations governed by this section will be issued for a period of 15 
years from the date on which the application was filed. Applications 
for renewals of registrations must be submitted on FCC Form 312R 
(Application for Renewal of Radio Station License in Specified 
Services) no earlier than 90 days and no later than 30 days before the 
expiration date of the registration.
    (8) Applications for modification of license or registration of 
receive-only earth stations must be made in conformance with Sec. Sec.  
25.117 and 25.118. In addition, registrants are required to notify the 
Commission when a receive-only earth station is no longer operational 
or when it has not been

[[Page 53653]]

used to provide any service during any 6-month period.
    (9)(i) Except as set forth in paragraph (b)(9)(ii) of this section, 
receive-only earth stations operating with non-U.S. licensed space 
stations must file an FCC Form 312 requesting a license or modification 
to operate such station.
    (ii) Operators of receive-only earth stations need not apply for a 
license to receive transmissions from non-U.S.-licensed space stations 
that have been duly approved for U.S. market access, provided the space 
station operator and earth station operator comply with all applicable 
rules in this chapter and with applicable conditions in the Permitted 
Space Station List or market-access grant.
    (c) * * *
    (2) * * *
    (i) * * *
    (A) No more than three geostationary satellites to be accessed;
* * * * *
    (3) * * *
    (i) * * *
    (B) The application includes information filed pursuant to 
paragraph (g)(1) of this section indicating that off-axis EIRP density 
from the proposed earth stations will not exceed relevant routine 
levels specified in Sec.  25.218(i).
    (ii) Applications to license networks of earth stations operating 
in the 28.35-28.6 GHz and/or 29.25-30.0 GHz bands under blanket 
operating authority that do not meet the requirements of Sec.  
25.212(e) or Sec.  25.218(i) must comply with the requirements in Sec.  
25.220 and must be filed on FCC Form 312 with a Schedule B for each 
large (5 meters or larger) hub station antenna and each representative 
type of small antenna (less than 5 meters) operating within the 
network.
* * * * *
    (e)(1) An application for a GSO FSS earth station license in the 
17.8-19.4 GHz, 19.6-20.2 GHz, 27.5-29.1 GHz, or 29.25-30 GHz bands not 
filed on FCC Form 312EZ pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of this section 
must be filed on FCC Form 312, Main Form and Schedule B, and must 
include any information required by paragraphs (a)(5) through (10) or 
(g) or (j) of this section.
* * * * *
    (g) * * *
    (1) * * *
    (vii) The relevant off-axis EIRP density envelopes in Sec.  25.218 
or Sec.  25.223 must be superimposed on plots submitted pursuant to 
paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through (vi) of this section.
* * * * *
    (k)(1) Applicants for FSS earth stations that qualify for routine 
processing in the conventional or extended C-bands, the conventional or 
extended Ku-bands, the conventional Ka-band, or the 24.75-25.25 GHz 
band, including ESV applications filed pursuant to paragraph (m)(1) or 
(n)(1) of this section, VMES applications filed pursuant to paragraph 
(m)(1) or (n)(1) of this section, and ESAA applications filed pursuant 
to paragraph (m)(1) or (n)(1) of this section, may designate the 
Permitted Space Station List as a point of communication. Once such an 
application is granted, the earth station operator may communicate with 
any space station on the Permitted Space Station List, provided that 
the operation is consistent with the technical parameters and 
conditions in the earth station license and any limitations placed on 
the space station authorization or noted in the Permitted Space Station 
List.
    (2) Notwithstanding paragraph (k)(1) of this section, an earth 
station that would receive signals in the 17.8-20.2 GHz band may not 
communicate with a space station on the Permitted Space Station List in 
that band until the space station operator has completed coordination 
under Footnote US334 to Sec.  2.106 of this chapter.
    (l) The requirements of this paragraph apply to applications for 
ESV operation in the 5925-6425 MHz (Earth-to-space) band with GSO 
satellites in the Fixed-Satellite Service, in addition to the 
requirements in paragraphs (a)(1), (5), (6), and (i) of this section:
    (1) Applications where any necessary frequency coordination has 
been satisfactorily completed, and the proposed earth station 
transmissions comport with the applicable provisions in Sec.  25.212(d) 
or the applicable off-axis EIRP density limits in Sec.  25.218(d) will 
be routinely processed. Such applications must include the relevant 
information specified by paragraph (g) of this section. Applicants for 
ESIMs operating in a network using variable power density control of 
earth stations transmitting simultaneously in shared frequencies to the 
same target satellite receiving beam must also provide the 
certification required by Sec.  25.212(g) or Sec.  25.218(d)(4), 
whichever is applicable.
    (2) Applications where the proposed earth station transmissions do 
not comport with the applicable provisions in Sec.  25.212(d) or the 
applicable off-axis EIRP density limits in Sec.  25.218(d) must include 
the information specified by paragraph (g)(1) of this section, and are 
subject to the requirements of Sec.  25.220.
    (3) Applications must include the following information:
    (i) ESIM applicants that meet the relevant off-axis EIRP density 
mask must certify that an individual ESIM terminal is self-monitoring 
and capable of automatically ceasing or reducing emissions within 100 
milliseconds if the ESIM transmitter exceeds the relevant off-axis EIRP 
density limits. ESIM applicants that do not meet the relevant off-axis 
EIRP density mask must provide a detailed showing that an individual 
ESIM terminal is self-monitoring and capable of automatically ceasing 
or reducing emissions within 100 milliseconds if the ESIM transmitter 
exceeds the relevant off-axis EIRP density limits. Variable-power ESIM 
applicants must certify that one or more transmitters are capable of 
automatically ceasing or reducing emissions within 100 milliseconds of 
receiving a command to do so from the system's network control and 
monitoring center, if the aggregate off axis EIRP densities of the 
transmitter or transmitters exceed the relevant off-axis EIRP density 
limits.
    (ii) An exhibit describing the geographic area(s) in which the ESVs 
will operate.
    (iii) The point of contact information referred to in Sec.  
25.228(e)(2).
    (iv) Applicants for ESVs that will exceed the guidelines in Sec.  
1.1310 of this chapter for radio frequency radiation exposure must 
provide, with their environmental assessment, a plan for mitigation of 
radiation exposure to the extent required to meet those guidelines.
    (m) The requirements of this paragraph apply to applications for 
ESIM operation in the 14.0-14.5 GHz (Earth-to-space) band with GSO 
satellites in the Fixed-Satellite Service, in addition to the 
requirements in paragraphs (a)(1) and (5) and (i) of this section:
    (1) Applications where any necessary frequency coordination has 
been satisfactorily completed, and the proposed earth station 
transmissions comport with the applicable provisions in Sec.  
25.212(c)(2) or the applicable off-axis EIRP density limits in Sec.  
25.218(f) will be routinely processed. Such applications must include 
the relevant information specified by paragraph (g) of this section. 
Applicants for ESIMs operating in a network using variable power 
density control of earth stations transmitting simultaneously in shared 
frequencies to the same target satellite receiving beam must also 
provide the certification required by Sec.  25.212(g) or Sec.  
25.218(f)(4), whichever is applicable.
    (2) Applications where the proposed earth station transmissions do 
not comport with the applicable provisions in Sec.  25.212(c)(2) or the 
applicable off-axis EIRP density limits in Sec.  25.218(f) must include 
the information specified

[[Page 53654]]

by paragraph (g)(1) of this section, and are subject to the 
requirements of Sec.  25.220.
    (3) Applications must include the following information:
    (i) ESIM applicants that meet the relevant off-axis EIRP density 
mask must certify that an individual ESIM terminal is self-monitoring 
and capable of automatically ceasing or reducing emissions within 100 
milliseconds if the ESIM transmitter exceeds the relevant off-axis EIRP 
density limits. ESIM applicants that do not meet the relevant off-axis 
EIRP density mask must provide a detailed showing that an individual 
ESIM terminal is self-monitoring and capable of automatically ceasing 
or reducing emissions within 100 milliseconds if the ESIM transmitter 
exceeds the relevant off-axis EIRP density limits. Variable-power ESIM 
applicants must certify that one or more transmitters are capable of 
automatically ceasing or reducing emissions within 100 milliseconds of 
receiving a command to do so from the system's network control and 
monitoring center, if the aggregate off axis EIRP densities of the 
transmitter or transmitters exceed the relevant off-axis EIRP density 
limits.
    (ii) An exhibit describing the geographic area(s) in which the 
ESIMs will operate.
    (iii) The point of contact information referred to in Sec.  
25.228(e)(2), (f), or (g)(1) as appropriate.
    (iv) Applicants for ESIMs that will exceed the guidelines in Sec.  
1.1310 of this chapter for radio frequency radiation exposure must 
provide, with their environmental assessment, a plan for mitigation of 
radiation exposure to the extent required to meet those guidelines.
    (n) The requirements of this paragraph apply to applications for 
ESIM operation in the 28.35-28.6 GHz or 29.25-30.0 GHz (Earth-to-space) 
band with GSO satellites in the Fixed-Satellite Service, in addition to 
the requirements in paragraphs (a)(1) and (5) and (i) of this section:
    (1) Applications where any necessary frequency coordination has 
been satisfactorily completed, and the proposed earth station 
transmissions comport with the applicable provisions in Sec.  25.212(e) 
or the applicable off-axis EIRP density limits in Sec.  25.218(i) will 
be routinely processed. Such applications must include the relevant 
information specified by paragraph (g) of this section. Applicants for 
ESIMs operating in a network using variable power density control of 
earth stations transmitting simultaneously in shared frequencies to the 
same target satellite receiving beam must also provide the 
certification required by Sec.  25.212(g) or Sec.  25.218(i)(5), 
whichever is applicable.
    (2) Applications where the proposed earth station transmissions do 
not comport with the applicable provisions in Sec.  25.212(e) or the 
applicable off-axis EIRP density limits in Sec.  25.218(i) must include 
the information specified by paragraph (g)(1) of this section, and are 
subject to the requirements of Sec.  25.220.
    (3) Applications must include the following information:
    (i) ESIM applicants that meet the relevant off-axis EIRP density 
mask must certify that an individual ESIM terminal is self-monitoring 
and capable of automatically ceasing or reducing emissions within 100 
milliseconds if the ESIM transmitter exceeds the relevant off-axis EIRP 
density limits. ESIM applicants that do not meet the relevant off-axis 
EIRP density mask must provide a detailed showing that an individual 
ESIM terminal is self-monitoring and capable of automatically ceasing 
or reducing emissions within 100 milliseconds if the ESIM transmitter 
exceeds the relevant off-axis EIRP density limits. Variable-power ESIM 
applicants must certify that one or more transmitters are capable of 
automatically ceasing or reducing emissions within 100 milliseconds of 
receiving a command to do so from the system's network control and 
monitoring center, if the aggregate off axis EIRP densities of the 
transmitter or transmitters exceed the relevant off-axis EIRP density 
limits.
    (ii) An exhibit describing the geographic area(s) in which the 
ESIMs will operate.
    (iii) The point of contact information referred to in Sec.  
25.228(e)(2), (f), or (g)(1) as appropriate.
    (iv) Applicants for ESIMs that will exceed the guidelines in Sec.  
1.1310 of this chapter for radio frequency radiation exposure must 
provide, with their environmental assessment, a plan for mitigation of 
radiation exposure to the extent required to meet those guidelines.

0
6. Amend Sec.  25.129 by revising paragraph (c) to read as follows:


Sec.  25.129  Equipment authorization for portable earth-station 
transceivers.

* * * * *
    (c) In addition to the information required by Sec. Sec.  1.1307(b) 
and 2.1033(c) of this chapter, applicants for certification required by 
this section must submit any additional equipment test data necessary 
to demonstrate compliance with pertinent standards for transmitter 
performance prescribed in Sec. Sec.  25.202(f), and 25.216, must submit 
the statements required by Sec.  2.1093(c) of this chapter, and must 
demonstrate compliance with the labeling requirement in Sec.  
25.285(b).
* * * * *


Sec.  25.130  [Removed and Reserved]

0
7. Remove and reserve Sec.  25.130.


Sec.  25.131  [Removed and Reserved]

0
8. Remove and reserve Sec.  25.131.

0
9. Amend Sec.  25.132 by revising paragraph (d) introductory text to 
read as follows:


Sec.  25.132  Verification of earth station antenna performance.

* * * * *
    (d) For each new or modified transmitting antenna over 3 meters in 
diameter, the following on-site verification measurements must be 
completed at one frequency on an available transponder in each 
frequency band of interest and submitted to the Commission.
* * * * *

0
10. Amend Sec.  25.133 by revising paragraph (d) to read as follows:


Sec.  25.133  Period of construction; certification of commencement of 
operation.

* * * * *
    (d) Each receiving earth station licensed or registered pursuant to 
Sec.  25.115(b) must be constructed and placed into service within 6 
months after coordination has been completed. Each licensee or 
registrant must file with the Commission a certification that the 
facility is completed and operating as provided in paragraph (b) of 
this section, with the exception of certification of antenna patterns.


Sec.  25.138  [Removed and Reserved]

0
11. Remove and reserve Sec.  25.138.

0
12. Amend Sec.  25.140 by revising paragraphs (a)(3)(i) through (iii) 
and (d)(1) to read as follows:


Sec.  25.140  Further requirements for license applications for GSO 
space station operation in the FSS and the 17/24 GHz BSS.

    (a) * * *
    (3) * * *
    (i) With respect to proposed operation in the conventional or 
extended C-bands, a certification that downlink EIRP density will not 
exceed 3 dBW/4kHz for digital transmissions or 8 dBW/4kHz for analog 
transmissions and that associated uplink operation will not exceed 
applicable EIRP density envelopes in Sec.  25.218 unless the non-
routine uplink and/or downlink operation is coordinated with operators 
of authorized co-frequency space stations at assigned locations within 
six

[[Page 53655]]

degrees of the orbital location of the proposed space station and 
except as provided in paragraph (d) of this section.
    (ii) With respect to proposed operation in the conventional or 
extended Ku-bands, a certification that downlink EIRP density will not 
exceed 14 dBW/4kHz for digital transmissions or 17 dBW/4kHz for analog 
transmissions and that associated uplink operation will not exceed 
applicable EIRP density envelopes in Sec.  25.218 unless the non-
routine uplink and/or downlink operation is coordinated with operators 
of authorized co-frequency space stations at assigned locations within 
six degrees of the orbital location of the proposed space station and 
except as provided in paragraph (d) of this section.
    (iii) With respect to proposed operation in the conventional Ka-
band, a certification that the proposed space station will not generate 
power flux-density at the Earth's surface in excess of -118 dBW/m\2\/
MHz and that associated uplink operation will not exceed applicable 
EIRP density envelopes in Sec.  25.218(i) unless the non-routine uplink 
and/or downlink operation is coordinated with operators of authorized 
co-frequency space stations at assigned locations within six degrees of 
the orbital location and except as provided in paragraph (d) of this 
section.
* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (1) The letter notification must include the downlink off-axis EIRP 
density levels or power flux density levels and/or uplink off-axis EIRP 
density levels, specified per frequency range and space station antenna 
beam, that exceed the relevant routine limits set forth in paragraphs 
(a)(3)(i) through (iii) of this section and Sec.  25.218.
* * * * *

0
13. Amend Sec.  25.202 by revising paragraphs (a)(8), (10), and (11) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  25.202  Frequencies, frequency tolerance, and emission limits.

    (a) * * *
    (8) The following frequencies are available for use by ESVs:

3700-4200 MHz (space-to-Earth)
5925-6425 MHz (Earth-to-space)
10.95-11.2 GHz (space-to-Earth)
11.45-11.7 GHz (space-to-Earth)
11.7-12.2 GHz (space-to-Earth)
14.0-14.5 GHz (Earth-to-space)
18.3-18.8 GHz (space-to-Earth)
19.7-20.2 GHz (space-to-Earth)
28.35-28.6 GHz (Earth-to-space)
29.25-30.0 GHz (Earth-to-space)
* * * * *
    (10) The following frequencies are available for use by Vehicle-
Mounted Earth Stations (VMESs):

10.95-11.2 GHz (space-to-Earth)
11.45-11.7 GHz (space-to-Earth)
11.7-12.2 GHz (space-to-Earth)
14.0-14.5 GHz (Earth-to-space)
18.3-18.8 GHz (space-to-Earth)
19.7-20.2 GHz (space-to-Earth)
28.35-28.6 GHz (Earth-to-space)
29.25-30.0 GHz (Earth-to-space)

    (11) The following frequencies are available for use by Earth 
Stations Aboard Aircraft (ESAAs):

10.95-11.2 GHz (space-to-Earth)
11.45-11.7 GHz (space-to-Earth)
11.7-12.2 GHz (space-to-Earth)
14.0-14.5 GHz (Earth-to-space)
18.3-18.8 GHz (space-to-Earth)
19.7-20.2 GHz (space-to-Earth)
28.35-28.6 GHz (Earth-to-space)
29.25-30.0 GHz (Earth-to-space)
* * * * *

0
14. Amend Sec.  25.204 by revising paragraph (e)(3) and removing 
paragraphs (h) through (k).
    The revision reads as follows:


Sec.  25.204  Power limits for earth stations.

* * * * *
    (e) * * *
    (3) FSS earth stations transmitting to geostationary space stations 
in the 28.35-28.6 GHz and/or 29.25-30.0 GHz bands may employ uplink 
adaptive power control or other methods of fade compensation. For 
stations employing uplink power control, the values in Sec.  
25.218(i)(1), (2), and (4) may be exceeded by up to 20 dB under 
conditions of uplink fading due to precipitation. The amount of such 
increase in excess of the actual amount of monitored excess attenuation 
over clear sky propagation conditions must not exceed 1.5 dB or 15 
percent of the actual amount of monitored excess attenuation in dB, 
whichever is larger, with a confidence level of 90 percent except over 
transient periods accounting for no more than 0.5 percent of the time 
during which the excess is no more than 4.0 dB.
* * * * *

0
15. Amend Sec.  25.209 by revising paragraphs (c)(1) and (f) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  25.209  Earth station antenna performance standards.

* * * * *
    (c)(1) An earth station licensed for operation with a GSO FSS space 
station or registered for reception of transmissions from such a space 
station pursuant to Sec.  25.115(b)(1) and (b)(3) is not entitled to 
protection from interference from authorized operation of other 
stations that would not cause harmful interference to that earth 
station if it were using an antenna with receive-band gain patterns 
conforming to the levels specified in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this 
section.
* * * * *
    (f) A GSO FSS earth station with an antenna that does not conform 
to the applicable standards in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this section 
will be authorized only if the applicant demonstrates that the antenna 
will not cause unacceptable interference. This demonstration must show 
that the transmissions of the earth station comport with the 
requirements in Sec.  25.218 or Sec.  25.223, or the applicant must 
demonstrate that the operations of the earth station have been 
coordinated under Sec.  25.220.
* * * * *

0
16. Amend Sec.  25.212 by revising paragraphs (c), (d), (g), and (h) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  25.212  Narrowband analog transmissions and digital transmissions 
in the GSO Fixed Satellite Service.

* * * * *
    (c)(1) An earth station, other than an ESIM, may be routinely 
licensed for analog transmissions in the conventional Ku-band or the 
extended Ku-band with bandwidths up to 200 kHz (or up to 1 MHz for 
command carriers at the band edge) if the input power spectral density 
into the antenna will not exceed -8 dBW/4 kHz, and the application 
includes certification pursuant to Sec.  25.132(a)(1) of conformance 
with the antenna gain performance requirements in Sec.  25.209(a) and 
(b).
    (2) An earth station may be routinely licensed for digital 
transmission, including digital video transmission, in the conventional 
Ku-band, or, except for an ESIM, in the extended Ku-band, if input 
power spectral density into the antenna will not exceed -14 dBW/4 kHz 
and the application includes certification pursuant to Sec.  
25.132(a)(1) of conformance with the antenna gain performance 
requirements in Sec.  25.209(a) and (b).
    (d) An individual earth station may be routinely licensed for 
digital transmission in the conventional C-band or, except for an ESIM, 
in the extended C-band, if the applicant certifies conformance with 
relevant antenna performance standards in Sec.  25.209(a) and (b), and 
power density into the antenna will not exceed -2.7 dBW/4 kHz. An 
individual earth station, other than an ESIM, may be routinely licensed 
for analog transmission with carrier bandwidths up to 200 kHz (or up to 
1

[[Page 53656]]

MHz for command carriers at the band edge) in the conventional C-band 
or the extended C-band, if the applicant certifies conformance with 
relevant antenna performance standards in Sec.  25.209(a) and (b), and 
power density into the antenna will not exceed +0.5 dBW/4 kHz.
* * * * *
    (g) A license application for earth station operation in a network 
using variable power density control of earth stations transmitting 
simultaneously in shared frequencies to the same target satellite 
receiving beam may be routinely processed if the applicant certifies 
that the aggregate off-axis EIRP density from all co-frequency earth 
stations transmitting simultaneously to the same target satellite 
receiving beam, not resulting from colliding data bursts transmitted 
pursuant to a contention protocol, will not exceed the applicable off-
axis EIRP density limits permissible for a single earth station, as 
specified in Sec.  25.218.
    (h) Applications for authority for fixed earth station operation in 
the conventional C-band, the extended C-band, the conventional Ku-band, 
the extended Ku-band or the conventional Ka-band that do not qualify 
for routine processing under relevant criteria in this section, Sec.  
25.211, or Sec.  25.218 are subject to the requirements in Sec.  
25.220.

0
17. Amend Sec.  25.218 by revising paragraphs (a), (b), and (i) and 
adding paragraph (j) to read as follows:


Sec.  25.218  Off-axis EIRP density envelopes for FSS earth stations 
transmitting in certain frequency bands.

    (a) This section applies to applications for fixed and temporary-
fixed FSS earth stations transmitting to geostationary space stations 
in the conventional C-band, extended C-band, conventional Ku-band, 
extended Ku-band, or conventional Ka-band, and applications for ESIMs 
transmitting in the conventional C-band, conventional Ku-band, or 
conventional Ka-band, except for applications proposing transmission of 
analog command signals at a band edge with bandwidths greater than 1 
MHz or transmission of any other type of analog signal with bandwidths 
greater than 200 kHz.
    (b) Earth station applications subject to this section may be 
routinely processed if they meet the applicable off-axis EIRP density 
envelopes set forth in this section.
* * * * *
    (i) Digital earth station operation in the conventional Ka-band. 
(1) For co-polarized transmissions in the plane tangent to the GSO arc:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
32.5-25log([thetas]).............  dBW/MHz.............  for......................  2.0[deg] <= [thetas] <=
                                                                                     7[deg].
11.5.............................  dBW/MHz.............  for......................  7[deg] <= [thetas] <=
                                                                                     9.2[deg].
35.5-25log([thetas]).............  dBW/MHz.............  for......................  9.2[deg] <= [thetas] <=
                                                                                     19.1[deg].
3.5..............................  dBW/MHz.............  for......................  19.1[deg] < [thetas] <=
                                                                                     180[deg].
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


where [thetas] is as defined in paragraph (c)(1) of this section.
    (2) For co-polarized transmissions in the plane perpendicular to 
the GSO arc:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
35.5-25log([thetas]).............  dBW/MHz.............  for......................  3.5[deg] <= [thetas] <=
                                                                                     7[deg].
14.4.............................  dBW/MHz.............  for......................  7[deg] < [thetas] <=
                                                                                     9.2[deg].
38.5-25log([thetas]).............  dBW/MHz.............  for......................  9.2[deg] < [thetas] <=
                                                                                     19.1[deg].
6.5..............................  dBW/MHz.............  for......................  19.1[deg] < [thetas] <=
                                                                                     180[deg].
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


where [thetas] is as defined in paragraph (c)(1) of this section.
    (3) The EIRP density levels specified in paragraphs (i)(1) and (2) 
of this section may be exceeded by up to 3 dB, for values of [thgr] > 
7[deg], over 10% of the range of theta ([thgr]) angles from 7-180[deg] 
on each side of the line from the earth station to the target 
satellite.
    (4) For cross-polarized transmissions in the plane tangent to the 
GSO arc and in the plane perpendicular to the GSO arc:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
22.5-25log([thgr])...............  dBW/MHz.............  for......................  2.0[deg] < [thgr] <=
                                                                                     7.0[deg].
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


where [thgr] is as defined in paragraph (c)(1) of this section.
    (5) A license application for earth station operation in a network 
using variable power density control of earth stations transmitting 
simultaneously in shared frequencies to the same target satellite 
receiving beam may be routinely processed if the applicant certifies 
that the aggregate off-axis EIRP density from all co-frequency earth 
stations transmitting simultaneously to the same target satellite 
receiving beam, not resulting from colliding data bursts transmitted 
pursuant to a contention protocol, will not exceed the off-axis EIRP 
density limits permissible for a single earth station, as specified in 
paragraphs (i)(1) through (4) of this section.
    (j) Applications for authority for fixed earth station operation in 
the conventional C-band, extended C-band, conventional Ku-band, 
extended Ku-band, or conventional Ka-band that do not qualify for 
routine processing under relevant criteria in this section, Sec.  
25.211, or Sec.  25.212 are subject to the requirements in Sec.  
25.220.

0
18. Amend Sec.  25.220 by revising paragraph (a) to read as follows:


Sec.  25.220  Non-routine transmit/receive earth station operations.

    (a) The requirements in this section apply to applications for, and 
operation of, earth stations transmitting in the conventional or 
extended C-bands, the conventional or extended Ku-bands, or the 
conventional Ka-band that do not qualify for routine licensing under 
relevant criteria in Sec.  25.211, Sec.  25.212, or Sec.  25.218.
* * * * *


Sec.  25.221  [Removed and Reserved]

0
19. Remove and reserve Sec.  25.221.


Sec.  25.222   [Removed and Reserved]

0
20. Remove and reserve Sec.  25.222.


Sec.  25.226   [Removed and Reserved]

0
21. Remove and reserve Sec.  25.226.


Sec.  25.227   [Removed and Reserved]

0
22. Remove and reserve Sec.  25.227.

0
23. Add Sec.  25.228 to read as follows:

[[Page 53657]]

Sec.  25.228  Operating and coordination requirements for earth 
stations in motion (ESIMs).

    (a) ESIM transmissions must comport with the applicable EIRP 
density limits in Sec.  25.218, unless coordinated pursuant to the 
requirements in Sec.  25.220.
    (b) Each ESIM must be self-monitoring and, should a condition occur 
that would cause the ESIM to exceed its authorized off-axis EIRP 
density limits, the ESIM must automatically cease transmissions within 
100 milliseconds, and not resume transmissions until the condition that 
caused the ESIM to exceed those limits is corrected.
    (c) Each ESIM must be monitored and controlled by a network control 
and monitoring center (NCMC) or equivalent facility. Each ESIM must 
comply with a ``disable transmission'' command from the NCMC within 100 
milliseconds of receiving the command. In addition, the NCMC must 
monitor the operation of each ESIM in its network, and transmit a 
``disable transmission'' command to any ESIM that operates in such a 
way as to exceed the authorized off-axis EIRP density limit for that 
ESIM or for all ESIMs that simultaneously transmit on the same 
frequency to the same target satellite receiving beam. The NCMC must 
not allow the ESIM(s) under its control to resume transmissions until 
the condition that caused the ESIM(s) to exceed the authorized EIRP 
density limits is corrected.
    (d) ESIM licensees must ensure installation of ESIM terminals on 
vehicles by qualified installers who have an understanding of the 
antenna's radiation environment and the measures best suited to 
maximize protection of the general public and persons operating the 
vehicle and equipment. An ESIM terminal exhibiting radiation exposure 
levels exceeding 1.0 mW/cm\2\ in accessible areas, such as at the 
exterior surface of the radome, must have a label attached to the 
surface of the terminal warning about the radiation hazard and must 
include thereon a diagram showing the regions around the terminal where 
the radiation levels could exceed the maximum radiation exposure limit 
specified in 47 CFR 1.1310 Table 1.
    (e) The following requirements govern all ESV operations:
    (1) ESV operators must control all ESVs by a NCMC located in the 
United States, except that an ESV on U.S.-registered vessels may 
operate under control of a NCMC location outside the United States 
provided the ESV operator maintains a point of contact within the 
United States that will have the capability and authority to cause an 
ESV on a U.S.-registered vessel to cease transmitting if necessary.
    (2) There must be a point of contact in the United States, with 
phone number and address, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 
with authority and ability to cease all emissions from the ESVs, either 
directly or through the facilities of a U.S. NCMC or a NCMC located in 
another country with which the United States has a bilateral agreement 
that enables such cessation of emissions.
    (3) ESV NCMC operators communicating with ESVs on vessels of 
foreign registry must maintain detailed information on each such 
vessel's country of registry and a point of contact for the relevant 
administration responsible for licensing those ESVs.
    (f) For all VMES operations, there must be a point of contact in 
the United States, with phone number and address, available 24 hours a 
day, seven days a week, with authority and ability to cease all 
emissions from the VMESs.
    (g) The following requirements govern all ESAA operations:
    (1) There must be a point of contact in the United States, with 
phone number and address, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 
with authority and ability to cease all emissions from the ESAAs.
    (2) All ESAA terminals operated in U.S. airspace, whether on U.S.-
registered civil aircraft or non-U.S.-registered civil aircraft, must 
be licensed by the Commission. All ESAA terminals on U.S.-registered 
civil aircraft operating outside of U.S. airspace must be licensed by 
the Commission, except as provided by section 303(t) of the 
Communications Act.
    (3) Prior to operations within a foreign nation's airspace, the 
ESAA operator must ascertain whether the relevant administration has 
operations that could be affected by ESAA terminals, and must determine 
whether that administration has adopted specific requirements 
concerning ESAA operations. When the aircraft enters foreign airspace, 
the ESAA terminal must operate under the Commission's rules, or those 
of the foreign administration, whichever is more constraining. To the 
extent that all relevant administrations have identified geographic 
areas from which ESAA operations would not affect their radio 
operations, ESAA operators may operate within those identified areas 
without further action. To the extent that the foreign administration 
has not adopted requirements regarding ESAA operations, ESAA operators 
must coordinate their operations with any potentially affected 
operations.
    (h) The following requirements govern all operations in the 3700-
4200 MHz (space-to-Earth) and 5925-6425 MHz (Earth-to-space) frequency 
bands of ESVs receiving from or transmitting to GSO satellites in the 
Fixed-Satellite Service:
    (1) ESVs must not operate in the 5925-6425 MHz (Earth-to-space) and 
3700-4200 MHz (space-to-Earth) frequency bands on vessels smaller than 
300 gross tons.
    (2) ESV operators transmitting in the 5925-6425 MHz (Earth-to-
space) frequency band to GSO satellites in the Fixed-Satellite Service 
(FSS) must not seek to coordinate, in any geographic location, more 
than 36 megahertz of uplink bandwidth on each of no more than two GSO 
FSS satellites.
    (3) ESVs, operating while docked, for which coordination with 
terrestrial stations in the 3700-4200 MHz band is completed in 
accordance with Sec.  25.251, will receive protection from such 
terrestrial stations in accordance with the coordination agreements, 
for 180 days, renewable for 180 days.
    (4) ESVs in motion must not claim protection from harmful 
interference from any authorized terrestrial stations to which 
frequencies are already assigned, or any authorized terrestrial station 
to which frequencies may be assigned in the future in the 3700-4200 MHz 
(space-to-Earth) frequency band.
    (5) ESVs operating within 200 km from the baseline of the United 
States, or within 200 km from a U.S.-licensed fixed service offshore 
installation, must complete coordination with potentially affected 
U.S.-licensed fixed service operators prior to operation. The 
coordination method and the interference criteria objective will be 
determined by the frequency coordinator. The details of the 
coordination must be maintained and available at the frequency 
coordinator, and must be filed with the Commission electronically via 
the International Bureau Filing System (http://licensing.fcc.gov/myibfs/) to be placed on public notice. The coordination notifications 
must be filed in the form of a statement referencing the relevant call 
signs and file numbers. Operation of each individual ESV may commence 
immediately after the public notice that identifies the notification 
sent to the Commission is released. Continuance of operation of that 
ESV for the duration of the coordination term must be dependent upon 
successful completion of the normal public notice process. If, prior to 
the end of the 30-day comment period of the public notice, any 
objections are received from U.S.-licensed Fixed Service operators that

[[Page 53658]]

have been excluded from coordination, the ESV licensee must immediately 
cease operation of that particular station on frequencies used by the 
affected U.S.-licensed Fixed Service station until the coordination 
dispute is resolved and the ESV licensee informs the Commission of the 
resolution. As used in this section, ``baseline'' means the line from 
which maritime zones are measured. The baseline is a combination of the 
low-water line and closing lines across the mouths of inland water 
bodies and is defined by a series of baseline points that include 
islands and ``low-water elevations,'' as determined by the U.S. 
Department of State's Baseline Committee.
    (6) An ESV must automatically cease transmission if the ESV 
operates in violation of the terms of its coordination agreement, 
including, but not limited to, conditions related to speed of the 
vessel or if the ESV travels outside the coordinated area, if within 
200 km from the baseline of the United States, or within 200 km from a 
U.S.-licensed fixed service offshore installation. Transmissions may be 
controlled by the ESV network control and monitoring center. The 
frequency coordinator may decide whether ESV operators should 
automatically cease transmissions if the vessel falls below a 
prescribed speed within a prescribed geographic area.
    (7) ESV transmissions in the 5925-6425 MHz (Earth-to-space) band 
shall not exceed an EIRP spectral density towards the radio-horizon of 
17 dBW/MHz, and shall not exceed an EIRP towards the radio-horizon of 
20.8 dBW. The ESV network shall shut-off the ESV transmitter if either 
the EIRP spectral density towards the radio-horizon or the EIRP towards 
the radio-horizon is exceeded.
    (i) For ESAA transmissions in the 14.0-14.5 GHz band from 
international airspace within line-of-sight of the territory of a 
foreign administration where fixed service networks have primary 
allocation in this band, the maximum power flux density (pfd) produced 
at the surface of the Earth by emissions from a single aircraft 
carrying an ESAA terminal must not exceed the following values unless 
the foreign Administration has imposed other conditions for protecting 
its fixed service stations:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-132 + 0.5 [middot] [thgr]........  dB(W/(m\2\ [middot]    For.......................  [thgr] <= 40[deg].
                                     MHz)).
-112..............................  dB(W/(m\2\ [middot]    For.......................  40[deg] <[thgr]
                                     MHz)).                                             <=90[deg].
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Where: [thgr] is the angle of arrival of the radio-frequency wave 
(degrees above the horizontal) and the aforementioned limits relate to 
the pfd under free-space propagation conditions.
    (j) The following requirements govern all ESIMs transmitting to GSO 
satellites in the Fixed-Satellite Service in the 14.0-14.5 GHz band:
    (1) Operations of ESIMs in the 14.0-14.2 GHz (Earth-to-space) 
frequency band within 125 km (for ESVs and VMESs) or within radio line 
of sight (for ESAAs) of the NASA TDRSS facilities on Guam (latitude 
13[deg]36'55'' N, longitude 144[deg]51'22'' E), White Sands, New Mexico 
(latitude 32[deg]20'59'' N, longitude 106[deg]36'31'' W and latitude 
32[deg]32'40'' N, longitude 106[deg]36'48'' W), or Blossom Point, 
Maryland (latitude 38[deg]25'44'' N, longitude 77[deg]05'02'' W) are 
subject to coordination with the National Aeronautics and Space 
Administration (NASA) through the National Telecommunications and 
Information Administration (NTIA) Interdepartment Radio Advisory 
Committee (IRAC). Licensees must notify the International Bureau once 
they have completed coordination. Upon receipt of such notification 
from a licensee, the International Bureau will issue a public notice 
stating that the licensee may commence operations within the 
coordination zone in 30 days if no party has opposed the operations. 
When NTIA seeks to provide similar protection to future TDRSS sites 
that have been coordinated through the IRAC Frequency Assignment 
Subcommittee process, NTIA will notify the Commission's International 
Bureau that the site is nearing operational status. Upon public notice 
from the International Bureau, all Ku-band ESIM licensees must cease 
operations in the 14.0-14.2 GHz band within 125 km (for ESVs and VMESs) 
or within radio line of sight (for ESAAs) of the new TDRSS site until 
the licensees complete coordination with NTIA/IRAC for the new TDRSS 
facility. Licensees must notify the International Bureau once they have 
completed coordination for the new TDRSS site. Upon receipt of such 
notification from a licensee, the International Bureau will issue a 
public notice stating that the licensee may commence operations within 
the coordination zone in 30 days if no party has opposed the 
operations. The ESIM licensee then will be permitted to commence 
operations in the 14.0-14.2 GHz band within 125 km (for ESVs and VMESs) 
or within radio line of sight (for ESAAs) of the new TDRSS site, 
subject to any operational constraints developed in the coordination 
process.
    (2) Within 125 km (for ESVs and VMESs) or within radio line of 
sight (for ESAAs) of the NASA TDRSS facilities identified in paragraph 
(j)(1) of this section, ESIM transmissions in the 14.0-14.2 GHz (Earth-
to-space) band shall not exceed an EIRP spectral density towards the 
horizon of 12.5 dBW/MHz, and shall not exceed an EIRP towards the 
horizon of 16.3 dBW.
    (3) Operations of ESIMs in the 14.47-14.5 GHz (Earth-to-space) 
frequency band in the vicinity (for ESVs and VMESs) or within radio 
line of sight (for ESAAs) of radio astronomy service (RAS) 
observatories observing in the 14.47-14.5 GHz band are subject to 
coordination with the National Science Foundation (NSF). The 
appropriate NSF contact point to initiate coordination is 
Electromagnetic Spectrum Management Unit, NSF, Division of Astronomical 
Sciences, 2415 Eisenhower Avenue, Arlington VA 22314; Email: 
[email protected]. Licensees must notify the International Bureau once they 
have completed coordination. Upon receipt of the coordination agreement 
from a licensee, the International Bureau will issue a public notice 
stating that the licensee may commence operations within the 
coordination zone in 30 days if no party has opposed the operations. 
Table 1 provides a list of each applicable RAS site, its location, and 
the applicable coordination zone.

 Table 1 to Sec.   25.228(j)(3)--Applicable Radio Astronomy Service (RAS) Facilities and Associated Coordination
                                                    Distances
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            Observatory                Latitude (north)      Longitude (west)   Radius (km) of coordination zone
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Arecibo, Observatory, Arecibo, PR..  18[deg]20'37''        66[deg]45'11''       Island of Puerto Rico.
Green Bank, WV.....................  38[deg]25'59''        79[deg]50'23''       160.

[[Page 53659]]

 
Very Large Array, near Socorro, NM.  34[deg]04'44''        107[deg]37'06''      160.
Pisgah Astronomical Research         35[deg]11'59''        82[deg]52'19''       160.
 Institute, Rosman, NC.
U of Michigan Radio Astronomy        42[deg]23'56''        83[deg]56'11''       160.
 Observatory, Stinchfield Woods, MI.
Very Long Baseline Array (VLBA)      ....................  ...................  ................................
 stations:
    Owens Valley, CA...............  37[deg]13'54''        118[deg]16'37''      160 *.
    Mauna Kea, HI..................  19[deg]48'05''        155[deg]27'20''      50.
    Brewster, WA...................  48[deg]07'52''        119[deg]41'00''      50.
    Kitt Peak, AZ..................  31[deg]57'23''        111[deg]36'45''      50.
    Pie Town, NM...................  34[deg]18'04''        108[deg]07'09''      50.
    Los Alamos, NM.................  35[deg]46'30''        106[deg]14'44''      50.
    Fort Davis, TX.................  30[deg]38'06''        103[deg]56'41''      50.
    North Liberty, IA..............  41[deg]46'17''        91[deg]34'27''       50.
    Hancock, NH....................  42[deg]56'01''        71[deg]59'12''       50.
    St. Croix, VI..................  17[deg]45'24''        64[deg]35'01''       50.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Owens Valley, CA operates both a VLBA station and single-dish telescopes.

    (4) When NTIA seeks to provide similar protection to future RAS 
sites that have been coordinated through the IRAC Frequency Assignment 
Subcommittee process, NTIA will notify the Commission's International 
Bureau that the site is nearing operational status. Upon public notice 
from the International Bureau, all Ku-band ESIMs licensees must cease 
operations in the 14.47-14.5 GHz band within the relevant geographic 
zone (160 kms for single-dish radio observatories and Very Large Array 
antenna systems and 50 kms for Very Long Baseline Array antenna systems 
for ESVs and VMESs, radio line of sight for ESAAs) of the new RAS site 
until the licensees complete coordination for the new RAS facility. 
Licensees must notify the International Bureau once they have completed 
coordination for the new RAS site and must submit the coordination 
agreement to the Commission. Upon receipt of such notification from a 
licensee, the International Bureau will issue a public notice stating 
that the licensee may commence operations within the coordination zone 
in 30 days if no party opposed the operations. The ESIMs licensee then 
will be permitted to commence operations in the 14.47-14.5 GHz band 
within the relevant coordination distance around the new RAS site, 
subject to any operational constraints developed in the coordination 
process.
    (5) ESIMs licensees must use Global Positioning Satellite-related 
or other similar position location technology to ensure compliance with 
the provisions of subparagraphs 1-3 of this paragraph.

0
24. Amend Sec.  25.258 by revising paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec.  25.258   Sharing between NGSO MSS feeder-link stations and GSO 
FSS services in the 29.25-29.5 GHz band.

* * * * *
    (b) Licensed GSO FSS earth stations in the vicinity of operational 
NGSO MSS feeder-link earth station complexes must, to the maximum 
extent possible, operate with frequency/polarization selections that 
will minimize unacceptable interference with reception of GSO FSS and 
NGSO MSS uplink transmissions in the 29.25-29.5 GHz band. Earth station 
licensees operating with GSO FSS systems shall be capable of providing 
earth station locations to support coordination of NGSO MSS feeder link 
stations under paragraphs (a) and (c) of this section. Operation of 
ubiquitously deployed GSO FSS earth stations in the 29.25-29.5 GHz 
frequency band must conform to the rules contained in Sec.  25.218(i).
* * * * *


Sec.  25.287   [Amended]

0
25. Amend Sec.  25.287 by removing paragraph (d).

0
26. Add Sec.  25.290 to subpart D to read as follows:


Sec.  25.290  Responsibility of licensee for blanket-licensed earth 
station operation.

    The holder of an FCC blanket earth station license is responsible 
for operation of any earth station under that license. Operators of 
satellite networks and systems must not transmit communications to or 
from such earth stations in the United States unless such 
communications are authorized under a service contract with the holder 
of a pertinent FCC blanket earth station license or under a service 
contract with another party with authority for such operation delegated 
by such a blanket licensee.

[FR Doc. 2019-19810 Filed 10-7-19; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 6712-01-P