The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has appointed Courtney Reinhard as Chief of its Space Bureau, placing her in charge of the agency's satellite communications licensing and policy activities. The appointment was announced by FCC Chairman Brendan Carr as the regulator continues efforts to streamline satellite authorisations and modernise its space-related regulatory framework.
Reinhard returns to the FCC following senior positions in the wireless telecommunications industry and the US Senate. Most recently, she served as Chief Telecommunications Counsel to the Senate Commerce Committee, working under Chairman Ted Cruz. Her previous FCC roles include Chief of Staff to former Commissioner Mike O'Rielly and Legal Advisor to former Commissioner Ajit Pai.
The Space Bureau oversees satellite licensing, spectrum policy and regulatory matters involving space-based communications systems. Its responsibilities include reviewing applications for satellite constellations and associated ground infrastructure, developing regulatory frameworks for emerging technologies and coordinating with other US government agencies on space policy.
The appointment comes as the FCC continues to address growing demand for satellite spectrum and licensing approvals, driven by the expansion of low Earth orbit (LEO) constellations, direct-to-device satellite services and non-terrestrial network technologies. Under Carr's leadership, the Commission has prioritised faster licensing procedures, updated satellite regulations and reductions in its application backlog.