Media Contact: 
Will Wiquist
will.wiquist@fcc.gov

For Immediate Release

FCC PROPOSES LICENSING FRAMEWORK FOR IN-SPACE SERVICING, ASSEMBLY, AND MANUFACTURING OPERATIONS
Proposed Rules Aim to Facilitate Novel Space Activities and Space Innovation
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WASHINGTON, February 15, 2024—The Federal Communications Commission today proposed a framework for licensing in-space servicing, assembly, and manufacturing (ISAM) activities.  ISAM activities are an area of rapidly accelerating innovation and economic opportunity.  As part of its Space Innovation Agenda, the FCC is proposing changes to its part 25 rules to support the development of these novel space activities.

ISAM refers to a set of capabilities used on-orbit, on the surface of space objects and celestial bodies, and in transit.  The “servicing” aspect of ISAM includes activities such as the in-space inspection, life extension, repair, refueling, or alteration of a spacecraft after its initial launch.  The term “servicing” is also used to describe transport of a spacecraft from one orbit to another, as well as debris collection and removal.  “Assembly” refers to the on-orbit construction of a space system using pre-manufactured components, and “manufacturing” is the transformation of raw or recycled materials into components, products, or infrastructure in space.

Space capabilities are expanding, opening economic and scientific opportunities, and providing new tools for the sustainable use of space.  ISAM activities have the potential to support U.S. space leadership, including advance communications, space exploration, and national security.   Today’s action builds on an inquiry adopted in August 2022 to open a proceeding on ISAM-specific licensing needs, and furthers the goals of the White House’s ISAM National Strategy.  As the ISAM industry continues to develop, the Commission envisions taking additional steps as needed to foster innovation and growth in this field.

Action by the Commission February 15, 2024 by Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (FCC 24-21).  Chairwoman Rosenworcel, Commissioners Carr, Starks, Simington, and Gomez approving.  Chairwoman Rosenworcel issuing a separate statement.

IB Docket Nos. 22-271, 22-272

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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).