Amazon, Globalstar, Iridium and Telesat have formed the SpaceConnect Association, a new trade organization representing non-geostationary satellite orbit (NGSO) operators.
The association said it will work with governments, international institutions and industry stakeholders to promote a competitive satellite communications market and expand global connectivity.
Former National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) Administrator David Redl has been appointed executive director, while former Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Space Bureau chief Julie Kearney will serve as general counsel.
Representing NGSO Operators
The founding members said the association was created to provide dedicated representation for NGSO satellite operators, particularly on issues where their interests differ from those of geostationary satellite (GSO) operators.
One of the policy areas highlighted is the regulation of equivalent power-flux density (EPFD), which governs interference between NGSO and GSO satellite systems.
The issue has been the subject of industry debate in recent years. In April, the FCC adopted a performance-based framework to replace its previous EPFD rules.
“It is worth noting that [NGSOs are] one of the few areas in our telecommunications sphere that is rapidly growing—and actually growing not only in size and scope, but in influence in American society and influence around the globe,” Redl said during a press briefing.
Policy Priorities
The association said it also plans to participate in discussions ahead of the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-27), where spectrum allocation will be a key agenda item.
In Europe, the group intends to engage with policymakers on the proposed EU Space Act to support market access for non-European satellite operators.
Direct-to-device (D2D) spectrum policy is also expected to be a priority, reflecting growing industry interest in satellite-enabled mobile connectivity.
Open to Additional Members
While the association launches with four founding members, SpaceX is not among them.
Redl said the organization is intended to represent the broader NGSO sector rather than any individual company.
He also indicated that the association may expand beyond satellite communications companies to include operators in other NGSO segments, such as Earth observation.
“There are lots of issues that need to be addressed at the broadest level—like sustainable and orbital stewardship, and advancing open markets. We would welcome anyone who’s willing to get on board with our policy priorities,” Redl said.
