The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is considering a new set of rules to improve space safety. The rules would require satellite operators to share real-time tracking data, which would help prevent collisions between spacecraft. With over 18,000 active and inactive satellites in orbit, the risk of collisions is increasing.

Background

The number of satellites in orbit has more than doubled in the past six years, with the majority located in low-Earth orbit. This increased congestion is making collisions statistically more likely. The FCC’s proposed rules would create an industry-wide standard for satellite operators to share their location data, which would help space traffic managers predict potential collisions.

The rules are largely supported by the industry, with companies such as SpaceX and OneWeb deploying hundreds to thousands of new satellites. However, there is a turf war over who should regulate the space industry, with some lawmakers arguing that the Department of Commerce should take over the role of space traffic cop and regulator.

Regulatory Conundrum

The FCC has been the de facto satellite regulator for decades, but lawmakers have sought to give space regulatory authority to the Department of Commerce. The Department of Commerce has not responded to requests for comment, and it is unclear how much money would be appropriated to allow the agency to take up the task.

The FCC’s proposed rules are seen as a step in the right direction, with industry experts arguing that creating safeguards in space is growing in importance as more satellites arrive in orbit. The rules would require satellite operators to share their location data with government space situational awareness operators or specific satellite-tracking companies.

Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.