The “part 5” Experimental and Special Temporary Authority (STA) License Access Checklist provides a list of the required elements of a part 5 space station application. This checklist contains links to document templates and examples, which are meant to aid applicants in ensuring they’ve provided the necessary initial information for the Commission to start a review and coordination. Applicants will also need to include technical information for all earth stations.
Applicants are reminded that all statements made in attachments are part of the application, and that the person signing the application must certify, individually and for the applicant, that all statements made in the application and attachments are true, complete, and correct to the best of their knowledge and belief and are made in good faith. Willful false statements are punishable by fine, imprisonment, revocation of any station authorization, and/or monetary forfeiture.
The information provided in this webpage is for the convenience of applicants and is not controlling in case of discrepancies between this webpage and other Commission rules, orders, and releases. If you believe this webpage contains inaccuracies or omissions, please e-mail any concerns to satinfo@fcc.gov.
| Form or Attachment | Link to Form or Example Document | Description |
|---|---|---|
| STA Form | www.fcc.gov/els | License term for testing lasting 6 months or less |
| Form 442 | www.fcc.gov/els | License term for testing of up to 2 years, with option to renew for up to 5 years subject to approval based on providing sufficient justification (5.71(a)(1)). |
| Mission Description | Discuss the nature of mission and operations. | |
| Satellite Transmitter(s) / Transceiver Attachment | Space Station Transmitter Attachment Template | Include an attachment capturing technical information for each satellite. |
| Earth Station (ES) Attachment | Earth Station Attachment Template | Include an attachment capturing location and technical information of each earth station. |
| Orbital Debris Mitigation Plan | ||
| NTIA Space Data Record | NTIA Space record data form | See Chapter 9 of the NTIA “Manual of Regulations and Procedures for Federal Radiofrequency Spectrum Management” (the “Red Book”). NTIA Chapter 9. Preparation of Applications of Frequency Assignment Action (2022). |
| Stop Buzzer | Stop Buzzer Template | Information and point of contact for ceasing emissions |
| International Amateur Radio Union (IARU) Coordination Letter | Needed only if the satellite will operate using frequency bands allocated for amateur use. | |
| Strongly Recommended: “Pre-coordination” Description Attachment | Applicant may describe any “pre-coordination activities” with federal agencies, and to the extent coordination is successful, a document on letterhead from those entities stating successful coordination has been reached, and/or any requested conditions to be placed on any FCC issued license. Reference: "Pre-coordination between Commercial and Federal Agencies" | |
| Possible additional information: Confirmation of NOAA License (remote sensing satellites) | We recommend applicants consult the (which includes an overview, , , forms, etc.). NOAA’s will help determine if a NOAA License is required. | If the satellite contains any form of imaging device on-board, a NOAA License for Private Remote Sensing Space Systems may also be required. Information on the NOAA Licensing process, including an Application Guide, can be found on the . For any questions or support on NOAA Licensing matters, contact NOAA Commercial Remote Sensing Regulatory Affairs at . |
ITU Filing Related Materials | ||
| ITU SpaceCap Filing (API / CR) | Applicants must download the latest version of the ITU SpaceCap software to produce an ITU filing. For experimental filings, unlike part 25, you can choose your own network name, which will need to be included in the FCC ITU Filing Cover Letter and in the Cost Recovery Letter. ITU Filings should be submitted to OET, not SB, along with attachments. The ITU filing will not be submitted to the ITU until all domestic (FCC/NTIA) coordination has been completed. | |
| ITU Graphical Interference Management System (GIMS) file | Applicants must download the latest version of the ITU GIMS software, and utilize the tool to document aspects such as beam patterns, and coverage areas. The ITU provides GIMS exercises and how-to videos on their website. | |
| SpaceVal Output | Provide a screenshot showing no fatal errors | |
| FCC Cover Letter for ITU SpaceCap Filing | FCC Cover Letter for ITU SpaceCap Filing Template | ITU Cost Recovery Letter should be signed and on the company letterhead, or official university letterhead for educational institutions. |
| Cost Recovery Letter | Cost Recovery Letter Template | |