United States of America: Federal Communications Commission closes consultation on EchoStar’s use of 2 GHz Bands for mobile-satellite services (SB Docket No. 25-173)

On 27 May 2025, the Federal Communications Commission’s Space Bureau closes its consultation on EchoStar Corporation’s use of the 2 GHz mobile-satellite service (MSS) spectrum. The consultation concerns satellite communications providers, specifically EchoStar and its subsidiaries operating in the 2000–2020 MHz (Earth-to-space) and 2180–2200 MHz (space-to-Earth) bands. The Commission sought comment on whether EchoStar’s current use is consistent with its authorisations and the regulatory expectation of MSS deployment. It also invited input on possible measures to increase spectrum utilisation, including the option of permitting new MSS operators in the band.