Satellite Communications

Mintz Levin's satellite communications practice members have been involved in a broad array of legal, transactional, and regulatory matters relating to communications satellite facilities and services since almost the inception of commercial satellite communications.

Since the mid-1970s, our attorneys have participated in every major satellite-related proceeding before the Federal Communications Commission, including proceedings to:

• streamline earth station antenna regulation;
• reduce satellite orbital spacing;
• permit satellite transponder leasing and resale;
• adopt rules for and license satellites in the Fixed Satellite Service ("FSS"), Direct Broadcast Satellite Service ("DBS"), Mobile Satellite Service ("MSS") and Radiodetermination Satellite Service ("RDSS");
• authorize new satellite-based communications services involving non-geostationary satellite orbit ("NGSO") systems and earth stations onboard vessels ("ESVs").

Our international satellite experience is equally broad. We advise clients on regulatory and technical issues involving the International Telecommunication Union ("ITU"), the privatization of international satellite organizations, international satellite coordination agreements, and the negotiation of satellite-related joint ventures.

Mintz Levin's satellite communications group also has particular expertise in complex transactions related to the procurement of spacecraft, satellite facilities and services, launch arrangements and insurance, as well as other related high technology equipment and software. Our members have represented clients in negotiations with most of the major current and former U.S. and international satellite service providers and spacecraft manufacturers. We have also represented borrowers and lenders in satellite financing transactions.