Decoding SpaceX’s Space Link: Harmonizing PCS and AWS-4 Spectrum

Recently we have written about the Space Link capacity that AST SpaceMobile is proposing.  As a comparison, let's look at the footprint and capacity that SpaceX can utilize current and in the future.

SpaceX Current - PCS Spectrum 5x5 MHz:

Currently SpaceX leases the PCS G block channel from T-Mobile, Nationwide.  These leases are set to expire in March 2026.  With the SpaceX system being actively utilized and sold, I would expect all of the leases to be extended long term.  In the future, this spectrum can be harmonized with the PCS H block channel that SpaceX is purchasing from EchoStar.  That harmonization would net an effective 10x10 channel for SpaceX's Space Link.  I would imagine that the PCS H block channel could be utilized with the current satellite design because it would be a minor shift in frequency from the current design.

SpaceX Future - AWS-4 Spectrum 20x20 MHz:

As long as the FCC approves the SpaceX/EchoStar transaction, SpaceX will effectively increase their composite Space Link capacity by 6 times, including the PCS H Block spectrum.  The additional 20x20 MHz of AWS-4 spectrum would need to be designed into their Next gen satellites, but it would provide SpaceX with a clear advantage in the Supplemental Coverage from Space (SCS) race.