Context:
- A new global space race is unfolding over satellite spectrum and orbital slots, driven by the rapid expansion of satellite megaconstellations for broadband connectivity.
- The competition raises concerns about equity, governance, sustainability, and access, especially for developing countries and underserved populations.
Key Highlights:
Megaconstellation Boom
- The satellite megaconstellation market is projected to grow from $4.27 billion (2024) to $27.31 billion by 2032, with a 25.5% CAGR.
- By 2030, over 50,000 new satellites are expected to be launched, adding to nearly 40,000 tracked objects already in Earth’s orbit.
Critical Role of Spectrum
- Satellite communications depend on scarce radio frequency bands, especially:
- Ku-band (12–18 GHz)
- Ka-band (26–40 GHz)
- L-band (1–2 GHz)
- These bands enable high-speed data transmission between satellites and ground stations.
ITU and Global Coordination
- The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is the sole global authority coordinating satellite spectrum and orbital slots.
- Allocation operates on a first-come, first-served basis, often favoring well-capitalized private firms and advanced spacefaring nations.
Equity and Digital Divide
- As of early 2025, 2.6 billion people remain offline, mainly in South Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
- Closing the digital divide by 2030 requires $2.6–2.8 trillion in investments, raising affordability concerns.
- Example: Starlink terminals cost ~$600, with recurring subscription fees.
Regulatory Developments
- World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC) 2023 – Resolution 8 mandates:
- 10% deployment within 2 years
- 50% within 5 years
- Full deployment within 7 years
- Operators must notify deviations in orbital plans to curb spectrum hoarding.
Technology Advantage of LEO Satellites
- Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites offer:
- Low latency (20–40 ms)
- High bandwidth
- Compared to Geostationary Orbit (GEO) satellites with 600+ ms latency, LEO enables telemedicine, online education, and real-time services.
Sustainability and Space Debris
- ITU-R 74 requires satellites to be de-orbited within 25 years of mission completion.
- Current compliance is low (~70% at best), increasing risks of space debris and orbital congestion.
Relevant Prelims Points:
- Issue: Scarcity-driven competition for satellite spectrum and orbital slots.
- Causes:
- Rapid expansion of private megaconstellations
- First-come allocation system under ITU
- Key Bodies & Norms:
- ITU, WRC 2023 Resolution 8, ITU-R 74
- Benefits:
- Expanded internet access
- Reduced digital divide potential
- Challenges:
- Spectrum monopolization
- Space debris accumulation
- High costs limiting accessibility
- Impact:
- Governance stress on global commons
- Inequitable access to space resources
Relevant Mains Points:
- Definitions & Facts:
- Megaconstellation: Large coordinated satellite networks
- Spectrum: Finite radio frequency resource
- Static + Conceptual Linkages:
- Global Commons
- Space Governance
- Digital Inclusion
- Indian Context:
- TRAI recommendation for administrative spectrum allocation to ensure affordability and faster rollout.
- Concerns:
- Private dominance over orbital resources
- Weak enforcement of debris mitigation norms
- Way Forward:
- Reform ITU allocation principles to ensure equitable access
- Strengthen space sustainability compliance
- Support developing countries in spectrum filings
- Balance innovation with global public interest
UPSC Relevance (GS-wise):
- GS 3: Science & Technology – Space Technology, Emerging Technologies
- GS 2: International Relations – Global Commons, International Institutions
- GS 2: Governance – Regulation of shared resources