Orbit utilization - Current regulations

It is pointed out that an increasingly efficient use of the geostationary satellite orbit and spectrum is necessary to accommodate the growing number of planned U.S. domestic satellites, as well as those of other countries. Technical efficiency can be maximized by designing satellites in a homogeneous manner which minimizes transmission differences between satellites. However, flexibility is also needed to design domestic satellite facilities to respond to the diverse demands in a competitive market. The Federal Communication Commission (FCC) seeks to achieve a balance between these goals in their domestic satellite policies and regulations. In December 1980, the FCC authorized the construction of some 22 new domestic satellites and the launch of 18 satellites. Attention is given to orbit use policies and reduced orbital spacings.