FCC APPROVES ECHOSTAR SPECTRUM SALES TO SPACEX, AT&T

INDUSTRY DESK■ 1 MIN READ

WED, MAY 13, 2026

■ AI-SUMMARIZED FROM 2 SOURCES ▸ TIMELINE

The FCC's Wireless and Space bureaus have approved EchoStar's sale of 65MHz of spectrum to SpaceX and 50MHz to AT&T. The transactions mark a significant redistribution of radio frequencies among major telecommunications and space companies.

EchoStar, the satellite communications company, is divesting a combined 115MHz of spectrum across two separate deals approved by the Federal Communications Commission. SpaceX will acquire the larger allocation of 65MHz, bolstering its satellite internet capabilities as it expands Starlink's global coverage. AT&T will receive 50MHz, adding to its existing spectrum holdings for terrestrial wireless services. The approvals from both the FCC's Wireless Telecommunications Bureau and Space Bureau indicate regulatory clearance for the transactions. Spectrum sales among carriers and operators occur periodically as companies adjust their frequency holdings to support network expansion and new service offerings. The deals reflect ongoing consolidation and strategic repositioning in the telecom sector as companies compete for spectrum resources needed to support 5G, satellite internet, and other advanced communications technologies.

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► Techmeme ► Techmeme

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FCC APPROVES ECHOSTAR SPECTRUM SALES TO SPACEX, AT&T

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