Media Contact: Will Wiquist will.wiquist@fcc.gov For Immediate Release FCC ADOPTS GUIDANCE ON ORBITAL DEBRIS MITIGATION RULES TO FOSTER SPACE INNOVATION -- WASHINGTON, January 25, 2024—The Federal Communications Commission today adopted an Order on Reconsideration addressing petitions regarding the Commission’s orbital debris mitigation rules. One of the biggest threats to new space-based innovation and services is abandoned space junk that can collide with the satellites we rely on. The Order on Reconsideration provides clarity and guidance to satellite operators on compliance with orbital debris mitigation policies adopted in 2020 as part of the first comprehensive update of the rules since their adoption in 2004. Among the clarifications provided by the Commission, the Order addresses questions related to satellite maneuverability disclosure requirements and the use of “free-flying” deployment devices. Additionally, the Order provides guidance for satellite operators on methods for conducting a re-contact risk analysis, and clarifies the applicability of the 0.99 disposal reliability goal for large satellite systems. The Commission also clarifies requirements for assessing and limiting the release of persistent liquids in space, and how the Commission’s orbital debris rules apply to non-U.S.-licensed space stations. Today’s action is a further step in the Commission’s efforts to preserve the space environment for continued investment, deployment and innovation in space-based services. Under the FCC’s Space Innovation agenda, the Commission established a new Space Bureau and took action to speed up regulatory review processes, created new opportunities for competition in the delivery of satellite broadband services, and modernized spectrum policy to better meet the needs of the next generation Space Age. As the agency promotes Space Innovation, it also has taken action to advance space safety and responsibility, including by adopting new rules for deorbiting satellites to address orbital debris risks and taking enforcement action for failure to properly deorbit. Action by the Commission January 25, 2024 by Order on Reconsideration (FCC 24-6). Chairwoman Rosenworcel, Commissioners Carr, Starks, Simington, and Gomez approving. Chairwoman Rosenworcel and Commissioner Simington issuing separate statements. IB Docket No. 18-313 ### Media Relations: (202) 418-0500 / ASL: (844) 432-2275 / Twitter: @FCC / www.fcc.gov This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action. Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action. See MCI v. FCC, 515 F.2d 385 (D.C. Cir. 1974).