Lately, satellite operators have been showing growing interest in all-electric satellites, which help slash the total budget of a satellite program and make the use of the radio frequency spectrum more efficient. However, due to certain technological features of electric propulsion sub-systems, it takes more time to move an all-electric satellite to its destination after the launch compared to a conventional chemically propelled satellite. Considering that the terms for putting various types of satellites into operation differ, while regulatory deadlines for bringing frequency assignments into use are the same for all types of satellites, the factor of time becomes a formidable obstacle preventing a wide use of all-electric satellites. At the same time, a rational, equitable, efficient, and economical use of the radio frequency spectrum is one of the tasks of the International Telecommunication Union and its Member States are encouraged to apply the latest technical advances as soon as possible. Will this United Nations specialized agency for information and communication technologies be able to respond to the current needs of the world space industry and secure all-electric satellites equal rights in outer space?
Air and Space Law