Statement and further consultation published 19 March 2026
Our decision to make up to 10 GHz of spectrum in the Q/V band available for satellite gateways across most of the UK landmass, with a further consultation on additional access in the remaining ‘high density’ areas.
We are opening access to up to 10 GHz of Q/V band spectrum for satellite gateways in predominantly rural ‘low density’ areas covering 94% of the UK landmass in the following frequencies:
- GSO: uplink 47.2 – 50.2 GHz and 50.4 – 52.4 GHz; downlink 37.5 – 42.5 GHz
- NGSO: uplink 47.2 – 50.2 GHz and 50.4 – 51.4 GHz; downlink 37.5 – 42.5 GHz
We will assess requests for licences to use this spectrum on a first come, first served basis, in line with the usual application processes for an NGSO gateway licence or GSO Permanent Earth Station licence. Access to 39.5 – 40.5 GHz and 50.4 – 51.4 GHz will be subject to additional coordination with the Ministry of Defence.
We are also consulting on new proposals to authorise use of up to 8 GHz of spectrum for gateways in the remaining 6% of the UK landmass (‘high density’ areas), including:
- a requirement that gateways in high density areas operate on a ‘non interference, non protection’ basis with regards to adjacent channel mobile users.
- options for coordinating with fixed links and for the minimum elevation angle we should permit in these high density areas.
Responding to this consultation
Please submit responses using the consultation response form no later than 5pm on 28 May 2026.