TPRC 2024: The 52nd Research Conference on Communications, Information and Inter

Link to paper

Abstract:
Space is getting crowded and policy tools for market design in satellite spectrum may be needed soon. Satellite radio spectrum does not fit neatly into a terrestrial auction model but that does not mean that market-oriented approaches are beyond reach. While satellite spectrum may incline toward command-and-control approaches, market design principles can help U.S. regulators keep pace with new deployments. This paper reviews the market participants, economic incentives, and policy options in several satellite and space proceedings at the FCC. I use a scoring method to apply market design thinking to analyze FCC proceedings on matters such as supplemental coverage from space, in-space assembly, manufacturing, and servicing, small satellites, satellite and earth stations, commercial space launch operations, earth stations in motion, and equivalent power flux density limits. The specific elements of each spectrum band are discussed with respect to economic factors relevant to innovation and competition among market participants.