Satellite providers want to cut bird spacing

Three satellite program providers have asked the FCC to reduce the amount of spacing between their satellites in order to expand their ability to carry more services.

EchoStar, DirecTV, and SES Americom have each filed requests for FCC permission to reduce spacing from the current nine degrees. This would allow them to also expand local broadcast carriage, as well as HDTV broadcasts. In addition to asking for suggestions for a new orbital spacing rule, the FCC requested information on how the proposed changes would affect interference, operation, and introductions of new technology.

The deadline for comments is Jan. 23. Replies are due Feb. 13.

For more information visit www.fcc.gov.

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