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The Commission’s current orbital debris rules were first adopted in 2004. Since then, significant changes have occurred in satellite technologies and market conditions, particularly in Low Earth Orbit, i.e., below 2000 kilometers altitude. These changes include the increasing use of lower cost small satellites and proposals to deploy large constellations of non-geostationary satellite orbit (NGSO) systems, some involving thousands of satellites.

The NPRM proposes changes to improve disclosure of debris mitigation plans. The NPRM also makes proposals and seeks comment related to satellite disposal reliability and methodology, appropriate deployment altitudes in low-Earth-orbit, and on-orbit lifetime, with a particular focus on large NGSO satellite constellations. Other aspects of the NPRM include new rule proposals for geostationary orbit satellite (GSO) license term extension requests, and consideration of disclosure requirements related to several emerging technologies and new types of commercial operations, including rendezvous and proximity operations. 

The Report and Order in this proceeding adopted a number of these proposals.  In addition a Further Notice of Proposed Rulemaking sought comment on topics such as collision risk and casualty risk for multi-satellite systems, de-orbit timelines, maneuverability requirements, and indemnification and post mission disposal bond issues.  The Commission issued a Second Report and Order adopting a 5-year de-orbit timeframe for satellites ending their missions in or passing through the low-Earth Orbit region.

Three petitions for reconsideration were filed in response to the initial Report and Order, which were all subsequently denied.