Analysis Shows Potential SpaceX Interference to Ka-Band GSO: Hughes

An interference analysis shows SpaceX's planned non-geostationary orbit system would operate in excess of applicable equivalent power flux density limits and create notable potential for harmful interference to Ka-band geostationary satellite orbit systems operating on a primary, interference-protected basis, Hughes told the FCC International Bureau in a filing Tuesday. The analysis, done by RFK Engineering, says NGSO modifications such as lowering the altitude of 4,408 satellites and doubling the number of satellites that can communicate with a gateway earth station would result in a significant increase in downlink interference to GSO systems. Hughes also again urged consolidation of a pending petition to reconsider a license modification given SpaceX and an application to modify Kuiper's satellite system (see 2111230008), saying both involve similarly situated licensees and share core issues that should be resolved based upon commonly applicable agency precedent. SpaceX didn't comment.