Story perspectives

FCC Rejects LEO Spectrum Bids; Amazon Buys Globalstar for $11B

4/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

On April 23, 2026, the FCC denied petitions for Mobile Satellite Service spectrum, preserving incumbent rights.
The agency rejected SpaceX’s request to modify the Big LEO band and dismissed bids from Globalstar and Iridium.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said the commission will vote this month on higher power limits for LEO satellites.
Amazon announced a $11 billion purchase of Globalstar, entering the direct-to-device market and affirming EchoStar’s 2 GHz MSS exclusivity.

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Story summary

On April 23, 2026, the FCC denied petitions for Mobile Satellite Service spectrum, preserving incumbent rights.
The agency rejected SpaceX’s request to modify the Big LEO band and dismissed bids from Globalstar and Iridium.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said the commission will vote this month on higher power limits for LEO satellites.
Amazon announced a $11 billion purchase of Globalstar, entering the direct-to-device market and affirming EchoStar’s 2 GHz MSS exclusivity.