Mobile satellite services in three frequency bands will be granted FCC permits to operate ancillary terrestrial components in their networks. Specifically, the mobile satellite operators will be able to use their existing spectrum for both satellite-provided connectivity and terrestrial or tower-based repeaters. They will not be permitted to use their spectrum to offer terrestrial-only services. The terrestrial component would serve only to augment the satellite signals in areas where coverage would otherwise be difficult, such as urban areas or to solve indoor coverage problems. The decision covers three spectrum bands: 2GHz, Big LEO and L-band. The FCC concluded that technically it would be more efficient, feasible and practical to permit MSS licensees to include a terrestrial component in their satellite systems to serve consumers than to award terrestrial rights in the band to third parties.
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- Companies that have been granted authorizations to operate mobile satellite services in the 2 GHz band include Boeing, Celstat America, Constellation Communications Holdings, Globalstar, ICO Services, Iridium, Mobile Communications Holdings, and TMI Communications.
- The ruling was opposed by wireless carriers, including AT&T Wireless, Verizon Wireless and Cingular Wireless.
