Statement published 30 October 2025
Non-geostationary orbiting (NGSO) satellite systems are a way of delivering broadband services from space using a constellation of satellites in a low or medium Earth orbit. These satellite systems have the potential to deliver high speed and low latency services. Gateway earth stations connect NGSO satellite systems to the internet or private networks.
As set out in our statement on NGSO satellite systems, we have set up a process for considering applications for NGSO spectrum licences.
Ofcom received an application from Amazon Kuiper UK Limited (Kuiper) for an NGSO gateway licence in the Ka band in Bude, Cornwall, to connect to its planned NGSO satellite system (also known as Kuiper). Details of this application (reference: “KUIPER-GAT-1”) can be found in the application documents section below.
Following a consultation in which we set out our initial assessment, we have decided to grant an NGSO gateway licence to Kuiper. This decision will enable Kuiper to operate a satellite gateway, which will support its plans to provide satellite broadband and backhaul connectivity services to households, businesses and other customers in the UK.