The term Communications Satellite System has been defined under Chapter 6 of Title 47 of the US Code.
The US Code defines Communications Satellite System as a “system of communications satellites in space whose purpose is to relay telecommunication information between satellite terminal stations, together with such associated equipment and facilities for tracking, guidance, control, and command functions as are not part of the generalized launching, tracking, control, and command facilities for all space purposes.”
The term satellite terminal station has also been defined in the Code which states “a complex of communication equipment located on the earth’s surface, operationally connected with one or more terrestrial communication systems, and capable of transmitting telecommunications to or receiving telecommunications from a communications satellite system.”
The term communication satellite has also been defined by the Code which states “the earth satellite which is intentionally used to relay telecommunication information”
The Federal Communications Commission reviews market environment with respect to national and international satellite communications services and shall and makes an annual report wherein those conditions are analyzed. The Commission sends a copy of the report to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and also to the House of Representatives Committee on Energy and Commerce.
