Earth station control framework under review
The Ministry of Home Affairs will present a statement surrounding concerns, solutions and next steps for implementing earth station regulations.
Alexa Lightbourne, the minister, told the House of Assembly her office was sifting through public feedback on proposals for a regulatory framework.
She said that the responses focused on topics such as the licensing process, spectrum management, health and safety, and cybersecurity.
MPs heard on Friday: “One key theme that stood out was that operators want Bermuda to be investment ready, with a clear pathway from first engagement through technical assessment, licensing and ongoing oversight.
“The objective reaches past the licensing decision.
“Satellite activity in Bermuda should build a durable space ecosystem that creates opportunities for innovation, investment and economic growth for Bermudians.”
The Government’s framework defines an earth station as “a radio station located either on Earth’s surface or within the Earth’s atmosphere” that is intended for communication with one or more space stations or other earth stations through space stations.
An earth station in motion, meanwhile, is used on transportation such as aircraft, ships or other vehicles.
The proposed framework was the final stage of policy development under the Bermuda National Space Strategy, which presented the island as a viable option for satellite infrastructure.
Ms Lightbourne said that it would sit within the remit of the Regulatory Authority, which has responsibility to oversee electronic communications.
She told the House that her ministry would set policy direction while the RA put it into effect through licensing and compliance arrangements.
The framework would involve licensing commercial satellite services, approving earth infrastructure and authorising spectrum use — to ensure efficient management of radio frequencies and that other communications services are properly protected.
Ms Lightbourne said: “This approach is proportionate and risk-based. Not all earth stations are the same.
“A gateway facility, a tracking station, a use terminal and an earth station in motion each present different technical and operational considerations.
“For that reason, the proposed framework sets a two-tier licensing structure.
“Standardised user terminals fall under blanket authorisations.
“More complex infrastructure, such as teleports and tracking facilities, requires individual licences with separate assessment and co-ordination.”
Ms Lightbourne said the framework would set technical, security and compliance standards such as strong cybersecurity and inspections.
She noted that the Department of Energy was reviewing comments and recommendations, with further consultation to happen later.
Talks are expected to continue with the RA and the Bermuda Airport Authority, Ms Lightbourne said, with discussions also to take place with the Bermuda Shipping and Maritime Authority.
• To read the full statement, see Related Media
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