BRUSSELS, Belgium-The European Commission has adopted a proposal to coordinate the selection of mobile satellite communications systems due to spectrum limitations and the economic, industrial and social implications of the services.
“There is a significant opportunity for European mobile and space industry in both equipment and services in satellite PCS,” the commission said.
Although the Federal Communications Commission is regulating systems, licensing in other parts of the world has not been done, the commission said. Spectrum is, to some extent, controlled by those who first lay claim to it, the EC noted. “There is a danger that, unless precautions are taken, systems capable of providing service in Europe may be selected by a process outside European jurisdiction.” The commission hopes to strengthen the European position on the matter.
Two inter-related issues have been identified. First, satellite system operators should give formal notification to the International Telecommunications Union in Geneva, the proposal states. ITU announced earlier this year it was considering establishing a global satellite communications network in the 2 GHz frequency band.
Also, the EC recommends selecting and authorizing systems in nations where the space segment capacity is to be used. Even if the ITU frequency coordination process was completed successfully, it would not guarantee the satellite system would be authorized, the commission said.
The commission would like to establish categories and adopt criteria for selection and authorization of systems by October. Systems could be selected using a comparative bidding process.
Proposals pass from the commission to the European Parliament and the Council.
