Following a new request from the firm Starlink to be authorised to carry out communications, on the one hand between its non-geostationary satellite systems registered with the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) under the names “STEAM-1B” and “USASAT-NGSO-3X” and, on the other, between fixed earth stations and earth stations in motion (ESIM), Arcep held a public consultation from 19 June to 19 July 2024 to gather feedback from interested stakeholders. After the launch of this public consultation, the firm Starlink amended its request to include only the “STEAM-1B” system.
Arcep publishes the results of the public consultation and amends the frequency licence awarded to Starlink
Arcep received 4,687 contributions from individuals, which are not being published, in the interests of protecting their personal data. Among the points raised was the appeal of being able to use the Starlink service to develop connectivity in “white areas” and areas that are poorly served by existing fibre and mobile networks. These contributions also highlighted broadband access needs in France, not only for aspects of day-to-day life but also for business-related practices. Arcep also noted that responses to the public consultation from Starlink customers expressed an overall satisfaction with the services provided. Lastly, some contributors expressed reservations about the number of satellites used.
Arcep also received contributions from four satellite sector companies, which can be viewed here.
In light of the contributions received, Arcep issued Decision No. 2024-2687 which it is publishing today and which amends Decision No. 2022-1102, awarding a licence to use radio frequencies to the firm Starlink Internet Services Limited, to establish and operate a network to provide a fixed satellite service open to the public. This license authorises Starlink to use the “STEAM-1B” system in addition to the previously authorised system.