Wire · founder news, decoded · regulatory
FCC votes to adopt new licensing process for satellites - Aerospace America
◆ Published
22 July 2026
◆ Topic
regulatory
◆ Sectors
◆ Geography
◆ Source
◆ Verified
Fusion42 · 22 July 2026 · Fusion42 review
The FCC unanimously voted to overhaul its satellite licensing process, replacing decades-old Part 25 regulations with a new Part 100 framework that permits batch processing of constellation applications, modular certification of standard parts, and new Variable Trajectory licenses for multi-orbit spacecraft. The order bypasses lengthy individual approvals and reduces regulatory friction for satellite operators, though House space committee leaders contend it exceeds FCC statutory authority and usurps responsibilities assigned to the Department of Transportation and Commerce.
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◆ The Wire takeaway
If you're building satellites or constellations, you no longer need separate licenses for each spacecraft—batch processing and modular certification just became law. Move fast on your FCC filing before House pushback triggers legislative reversal.
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◆ Topics
Space Tech · fcc-licensing · satellite-constellation · regulatory-streamline · space-operations · orbital-debris-mitigation