Starlink: Elon Musk’s Gateway to the Stars
Previously, Arcep launched a public consultation for Starlink from June 19 to July 19, 2024, aimed at gathering feedback from interested stakeholders. The consultation focused on communications between non-geostationary satellite systems ‘STEAM-1B’ and ‘USASAT-NGSO-3X’ with fixed earth stations and earth stations in motion (ESIM)
.
Arcep has now published the results, with 4,687 contributions from individuals. The survey highlighted a strong demand for connectivity in areas either unserved or underserved by existing fiber or mobile networks. After review, Arcep agreed to amend the frequency usage authorization, enabling Starlink to operate the STEAM-1B system in addition to existing infrastructures.
This decision will allow French users to access Starlink’s new satellites, while keeping the currently authorized parameters of Starlink user terminals unchanged. This will further improve internet access in rural areas across France and also gradually increase the connection speeds offered by Starlink services
Additionally, the study also revealed a need for access to high-speed services in France, not only for everyday life but also for professional uses. Moreover, Arcep noted that the responses from Starlink service users indicated general satisfaction with the offered services
, although concerns were expressed about the number of satellites used.
Orange, the French Challenger
The second decision from Arcep involves Orange, which aims to deploy its own satellite network for its business clients. For this purpose, it has requested authorization to use specific frequencies to operate a publicly accessible fixed satellite service network in Metropolitan France
. This public consultation is open until January 30, 2025, at 18:00.
The goal of this public consultation is to collect observations on the proposed authorization from interested parties. Contributions should be sent to Arcep, preferably by email or postal mail.
frequencies in the 10,950 – 11,190 GHz (space to Earth) and 14 – 14,185 GHz (Earth to space) bands to establish and operate a publicly accessible fixed satellite service network to provide satellite communication services in Metropolitan France for business clients, with fixed earth stations operating with a geostationary satellite system.
Starlink by Elon Musk
Our Review on Starlink