spacetoday.net: FCC moves to block broadband network on GPS concerns

Posted: Thu, Feb 16, 2012, 5:41 AM ET (1041 GMT)
The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is taking steps to block the implementation of a hybrid satellite-terrestrial broadband communications network after testing found interference with GPS navigation signals. LightSquared had sought to deploy a terrestrial network to augment its existing satellite to provide high-speed communications services in the US. However, after an extended debate and multiple testing efforts, the FCC said the National Telecommunications and Information Administration had found there was "no practical way" to mitigate the potential interference the LightSquared terrestrial signals would have on weaker GPS broadcasts. The FCC said it would thus move to revoke LightSquared license for a terrestrial network, thus blocking, perhaps permanently, LightSquared's plans. The company said it would continue to seek a solution that would allow it to deploy its system while alleviating any potential GPS interference concerns, including pursuing a swap of spectrum with the Defense Department.