A dispute is brewing between ham radio enthusiasts and satellite company AST SpaceMobile. The issue centers on AST’s plan to use part of the 430–440 MHz “70 cm” band, a frequency range that has been used by amateur radio operators for decades for weak-signal communication, amateur satellites, and even Moon-bounce contacts.
Why Ham Radio Users Are Worried
Ham radio operators fear that allowing a large commercial satellite network to use this spectrum could cause interference. Even small amounts of extra noise can disrupt weak-signal work, make satellite communications difficult, and reduce the range and quality of amateur transmissions.
Many in the amateur community believe that sharing the band with hundreds of satellites could permanently raise the noise floor. This means signals from low-Earth-orbit satellites and even the International Space Station could be much harder to hear.
AST SpaceMobile’s Response
AST SpaceMobile has defended its application, saying the use of these frequencies would be limited and would not cause harmful interference. However, amateur radio organizations have pointed out that AST’s satellites are already transmitting in parts of this band, which has added to the concerns.
FCC Review in Progress
The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is currently reviewing AST SpaceMobile’s request. Ham radio operators and organizations have been submitting their feedback, urging the FCC to protect the 70 cm band from potential commercial takeover.
This case is important because it could set a precedent for how amateur radio spectrum is shared—or taken over—by commercial satellite operators in the future.
Why It Matters
- Spectrum protection – The 70 cm band is a key resource for amateur communication, education, and emergency services.
- Global impact – AST’s satellites will operate worldwide, so any decision in the US could influence regulations in other countries.
- Future precedent– If one commercial company is allowed to use this band, others might follow.
The Bottom Line
The fight between ham radio operators and AST SpaceMobile is about more than one frequency band—it’s about the future of amateur radio access. With the rapid growth of satellite constellations, protecting amateur spectrum from interference is becoming a global challenge. The FCC’s decision in this case will be closely watched by both the amateur radio community and the satellite industry.