ICFS Update, 17 GHz Rules Among Space Bureau's 2024 Priorities

An update to the FCC's international communications filing system (ICFS) is "about 85% there" and should rollout in the second half of the year, Space Bureau Chief of Staff Kerry Murray said Tuesday. At an FCBA event where 2024 priorities were discussed, Murray said the bureau is working with software developers on updating the system, which dates back to the 1990s. Murray said there will likely be a move this year to refresh the record on earth stations in motion for non-geostationary orbit satellites. Deputy Bureau Chief Jennifer Gilsenan said the bureau also hopes this year to focus on finalized rules for NGSO operations in the 17 GHz band. Pointing to April's NGSO fixed satellite service sharing order and Further NPRM (see 2304200039), she said finishing that proceeding is also a 2024 priority. Gilsenan said the bureau is working with the Wireless and other bureaus on a supplemental coverage from space framework; an SLS NPRM was adopted in March (see 2303160009). Associate Bureau Chief Stephen Duall said that in-space servicing, assembly manufacturing is "very much on our radar" for 2024, following the 2022 ISAM notice of inquiry (see 2208050023). He said September's satellite application streamlining item (see 2309210055) was part of a longer initiative that the bureau continues to work toward. Asked about better coordination with NTIA when it comes to frequency bands also used by federal users, Murray said the ICFS modernization should help with that. "The technology is the problem," she said. The ICFS update should make the system more user-friendly by incorporating such capabilities as auto population of fields. Bureau Chief Julie Kearney said among the chief complaints the bureau receives are those about the ICFS.