DISH Network fined $150,000 for space debris violation

By Darren Lyn

HOUSTON, US (AA) - DISH Network has been slapped with a $150,000 fine for littering in outer space, the first-ever penalty of its kind handed down by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

"DISH failed to move its direct broadcast satellite service EchoStar-7 satellite to the proper disposal orbit at the satellite's end-of-life as required by DISH's license terms and conditions," the FCC said in its filing adopted on Monday.

"DISH admits that it failed to operate the EchoStar-7 satellite in accordance with its authorization, will implement a compliance plan, and will pay a $150,000 civil penalty."

The filing specified that DISH dumped the satellite -- which was launched in 2002 -- 122 kilometers (75 miles) above its orbit in 2012, well short of the 300 kilometers (186 miles) required by the disposal agreement. The satellite, according to DISH, was supposed to have enough propellant to reach the required orbit by its end-of-life in 2022 but ran out of fuel before achieving that distance.

"Orbital debris in space jeopardizes the nation's terrestrial and space-based communication systems by increasing the risk of damage to satellite communications systems," the FCC continued in the filing.

The FCC's Enforcement Bureau emphasized that it will not tolerate companies littering in space, with DISH being handed the first such penalty for its violation of the rules.

“As satellite operations become more prevalent and the space economy accelerates, we must be certain that operators comply with their commitments,” said FCC enforcement bureau chief Loyaan A. Egal in a statement.

“This is a breakthrough settlement, making very clear the FCC has strong enforcement authority and capability to enforce its vitally important space debris rules.”