Could FCC’s decision lead to more satellite productions? Commissioners voted in favor of ISAM

FCC’s latest decision may lead to more satellite productions.

On Friday, August 5, the Federal Communications Commission decided to initiate proceedings on all potential political and economic issues related to manufacturing, assembly and servicing in space.

The communications agency explained that this was necessary to promote American leadership in the booming space industry. The FCC further explained that the most recent “notice of investigation” will observe the challenges and opportunities of space missions.

These include spacecraft repairs, refueling of satellites, debris removal and other space activities.

Could FCC’s decision lead to more satellite productions?

According EngadgetIn its latest report, the FCC commissioners decided to vote in favor of what is called ISAM (In-Space Servicing, Assembly, and Manufacturing).

(Photo: Photo credit should read YURI KADOBNOV/AFP via Getty Images)
A full-scale replica of the first artificial satellite Sputnik, launched by the Soviet Union from a test area in Kazakhstan on October 4, 1957, is on display at the Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics (or Memorial Museum of Space Exploration) in Moscow on October 3, 2017. When the Soviet Union launched the first artificial satellite 60 years ago.

Also read: South Korea’s first lunar orbiter flies to the Moon thanks to SpaceX

Critics believe the move will shed light on the demands and risks of space productions.

On the other hand, the vote in favor of ISAM will also benefit space companies that work on satellites and space stations. However, they still have to find new solutions to prevent debris from rising into orbit.

“Today’s action continues this modernization effort, as in-space servicing, assembly and manufacturing capabilities – or ‘ISAM’ – have the potential to build entire industries,” explained FCC through its official press release.

The agency added that ISAM could help create new jobs and find climate change mitigation solutions.

Why FCC’s decision matters

As of press time, NASA and other space agencies have a set of rules they must follow. However, FCC Chairman Jessica Rosenworcel explained that existing policies were designed for different eras.

She said the existing rules were implemented during the period when space programs were run entirely by government agencies.

Today, the space industry sees more and more independent aerospace companies, such as SpaceX. With ISAM, FCC will soon be able to adapt to the rise of space tourism, the increase in commercial space missions and the growth of satellite constellations.

Meanwhile, SpaceX’s first lunar launch will bring Korea’s lunar orbiter into space.

On the other hand, a luxurious space balloon should be launched.

For more news on the space industry and other related topics, always keep your tabs open here on TechTimes.

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Written by: Griffin Davis

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