Space Regulatory Glossary Regulations
NPRM
- Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. A formal document issued by a federal agency — most commonly the FCC in the satellite context — proposing new rules or amendments to existing regulations and soliciting public comment before adoption.
- NPRMs open a comment period (typically 30-90 days) during which affected parties can submit arguments for or against the proposed rules. Recent significant NPRMs include the FCC's 5-year deorbit rule and the proposed Part 25 to Part 100 satellite licensing overhaul.
Read: U.S. Space Regulatory Compliance
Mentioned in The Downlink
- Multi-Agency Coordination: FCC, FAA, NOAA, and ITU
A single satellite mission can require four federal agencies that don't talk to each other. Case studies and reform efforts in multi-agency coordination.
- FCC Satellite Licensing: From Application to Authorization
Guide to FCC Part 25 satellite licensing: application process, processing rounds, milestones, bonds, filing types, market access, and Part 100.
- How Ground Station Licensing Works: A Complete Guide
Earth station types, FCC licensing steps, frequency coordination, ESIMs, and common mistakes. A plain-language guide to ground station licensing.
- How Satellite Licensing Works: A Complete Guide
FCC, FAA, NOAA, and ITU filing processes, costs, timelines, and common mistakes. A plain-language guide to U.S. satellite licensing.