§ 25.280   Inclined orbit operations.

   (a)  Satellite operators may commence operation in inclined orbit mode
   without  obtaining  prior  Commission  authorization provided that the
   Commission is notified by letter within 30 days after the last north-south
   station keeping maneuver. The notification shall include:

   (1) The operator's name;

   (2) The date of commencement of inclined orbit operation;

   (3) The initial inclination;

   (4) The rate of change in inclination per year; and

   (5) The expected end-of-life of the satellite accounting for inclined orbit
   operation, and the maneuvers specified under § 25.283 of the Commission's
   rules.

   (b) Licensees operating in inclined-orbit are required to:

   (1) Periodically correct the satellite attitude to achieve a stationary
   spacecraft antenna pattern on the surface of the Earth and centered on the
   satellite's designated service area;

   (2) Control all electrical interference to adjacent satellites, as a result
   of operating in an inclined orbit, to levels not to exceed that which would
   be caused by the satellite operating without an inclined orbit;

   (3) Not claim protection in excess of the protection that would be received
   by the satellite network operating without an inclined orbit; and

   (4) Continue to maintain the space station at the authorized longitude
   orbital location in the geostationary satellite arc with the appropriate
   east-west station-keeping tolerance.

   [ 69 FR 54587 , Sept. 9, 2004]

   return arrow Back to Top