Attachment GRANT

GRANT

DECISION submitted by FCC,IB

GRANT

2005-03-08

This document pretains to SAT-AMD-20041122-00210 for Amended Filing on a Satellite Space Stations filing.

IBFS_SATAMD2004112200210_421282

                                                                                                                       3060-0678
                                                                           I

Date & Time Filed: Nov 22 2004 9:35: 14:5 16AM
                                                                           ;   S L   4?4&&5         4CY      LJ,4/.=&
File Number: SAT-AMD-20041122-002 10                 "--   I__




                                                                                                                   /
   FCC APPLICATION FOR SPACE AND EARTH STATI0N:MOD OR AMD - MAIN FORM                         FCC Use Only

                        FCC 3 12 MAIN FORM FOR OFFICIAL USE ONLY



Enter a description of this application to identify it on the main menu:
DIRECTV GROUP DIRECTV 10 S2641 AMD (@ 102.8 WL)
1-8. Legal Name of Applicant

           Name:        The DIRECTV Group, Inc.             Phone Number:               310-964-0725
           DBA                                              Fax Number:                 310-964-0843
           Name:
           Street:      2250 E. Imperial Highway            E-Mail:                     dapattillo@directv.com


           City:        El Segundo                          State:                      CA
           Country:      USA                                Zipcode:                    90245       -


           Attention:   David Pattillo


                                         Attachment
                                  Conditions of Authorization
                                        March 8,2005

    1. DIRECTV Group, Inc.’s (“DIRECTV”) application, SAT-LOA-20040909-00 169, Call
       Sign S264 1, as amended by SAT-AMD-20041122-002 10 and SAT-AMD-20050 103-
       00002 IS GRANTED. Accordingly, DIRECTV is authorized to launch and operate its
       DIRECTV-10 Ka-band satellite at the 102.8’ W.L. orbit location, in the 18.3-18.8 GHz
       (space-to-Earth), 28.35-28.6 GHz (Earth-to-space) and 29.25-29.5 GHz (Earth-to-space)
       frequency bands in accordance with the terms, conditions, and technical specifications set
       forth in its application, this Attachment, and the Federal Communications Commission’s
       (“Commission”) Rules.
    2. DIRECTV- 10 must be constructed, launched, and placed into operation in accordance
       with the technical parameters and terms and conditions of this authorization by these
       specified time periods following the date of authorization:

            a. Execute a binding contract for construction by 3/8/2006
            b. Complete the Critical Design Review by 3/8/2007
            c. Commence construction by 3/8/2008
            d. Launch and begin operations by 3/8/2010
            e. DIRECTV must file a bond with the Commission in the amount of $3 million,
               pursuant to the procedures set forth in Public Notice, DA 03-2602, 18 FCC Rcd
               16283 (2003)’ as revised by Amendment of the Commission’s Space Station
               Licensing Rules and Policies, First Order on Reconsideration and Fifth Report
               and Order, FCC 04-147 19 FCC Rcd. 12637 (2004)’ within 30 days of the date
               of this grant..

        Failure to meet any of these dates shall render this authorization null and void.

    3. DIRECTV’s request for a waiver of the cross-polarization isolation requirements,
       contained in Section 25.210(i) of the Commission’s rules is GRANTED. Section
       25.210(i) of the Commission’s rules require the ratio of the on-axis co-polar gain to the
       cross-polar gain of the antenna in the assigned frequency band be at least 30 dB within its
       primary coverage area. 1 The DIRECTV-10 antennas have been designed to meet a
       minimum cross-polarization requirement of 27 dB. DIRECTV states that its cross-
       polarization interference is an intra-system design issue that does not affect inter-system
       coordination and therefore will not affect other Ka-band satellite systems. DIRECTV
       plans to employ digital modulation with forward error correction coding on both
       polarization senses to reduce system sensitivity to cross-polarization interference. In
       addition polarization isolation, directivity and antenna implementation losses have also
       been optimized for best performance. Based on DIRECTV’s representations that it is
       using digital, rather than analog modulation, and that other Ka-band satellite systems will




’   47 C.F.R. 3 25.210(i).


         not be affected by its operation, we find that it is in the public interest to waive Section
         25.2 10(i).2 We find that this grant is consistent with previous Commission action^.^
    4. We GRANT DIRECTV’s request for waiver of Sections S6,4 S7,5 S 1O6 and S 137of
       Schedule S. DIRECTV has provided representative data for the beams stating that the
       beams have essentially identical electrical parameters. In addition DIRECTV has
       provided a matrix of connectivity that allows derivation of the transponder combinations.
       Considering the complexity of the DIRECTV- 10 satellite design, the amount of
       information that would need to be provided in these Sections of the Schedule S Form
       would be extensive and, in many ways, redundant. The information provided by
       DIRECTV in its Schedule S Form and application is sufficient for us to determine
       whether the system meets the Commission’s technical requirements. We find that this
       grant is consistent with previous Commission actions.*
    5. DIRECTV shall prepare the necessary information, as may be required, for submission to
       the ITU to initiate and complete the advance publication, international coordination, due
       diligence, and notification process of this space station, in accordance with the ITU Radio
       Regulations. DIRECTV shall be held responsible for all cost recovery fees associated
       with these ITU filings. We also note that no protection from interference caused by radio
       stations authorized by other administrations is guaranteed unless coordhation and
       notification procedures are timely completed or, with respect to individual
       administrations, by successfully completing coordination agreements. Any radio station
       authorization for which coordination has not been completed may be subject to additional
       terms and conditions as required to effect coordination of the frequency assignments of
       other administrations. See 47 C.F.R. 5 25.1 1 I(b).
     6. DIRECTV must coordinate its downlink operations for the specific frequencies
        authorized in the 18.3-18.8 GHz band with U.S. Government systems, including
        Government operations to earth stations in foreign countries, in accordance with footnote
        US334 to the Table of Frequency Allocations, 47 C.F.R. 6 2.106.
     7. DIRECTV must conduct its operations pursuant to this authorization in a manner
        consistent with the power flux-density requirements of footnote US255 to the Table of
        Frequency Allocations, 47 C.F.R. 8 2.106,47 C.F.R. 3 25.138(a)(6), and 47 C.F.R. 3
        25.208, of the Commission’s Rules.
     8. The license term for the DIRECTV-10 satellite, Call Sign S264 1, is fifteen years and will
        begin to run on the date that DIRECTV certifies to the Commission that the satellite has


     47 C.F.R.   5 25.210(i).
3
   See, e.g.,New Skies Satellites,N.V., Petition for Declaratory Ruling, Order, 17 FCC Rcd 10369 at para.
19 (2002) and SES Americom, Inc., Application to Launch and Operate the Americom-23 hybrid
C/Ku/Extended Ku-Band Satellite, File No. SAT-LOA-20031218-00358, granted July 13,2004.

    This section contains information regarding service areas €or the satellite system.
5
   This section contains information regarding space station antenna beam characteristics for each beam of
a satellite system.
6
    This section contains information regarding space station transponders.
7
    This section contains information regarding typical emissions.

*   See DIRECTV Group, Inc. SAT-MOD-20040614-00113, Grunt Stamp November 4,2004


                                                        2


   been successfully placed into orbit and its operation fully conforms to the terms and
   conditions of this authorization.
9. DIRECTV is afforded thirty days from the date of release of this grant and authorization
   to decline this authorization as conditioned. Failure to respond within this period will
   constitute formal acceptance of the authorization as conditioned.
10. This grant is issued pursuant to Section 0.26 I of the Commission's rules on delegated
    authority, 47 C.F.R. 0 0.261, and is effective upon release. Petitions for reconsideration
    under Section 1.106 or applications for review under Section 1.115 of the Commission's
    rules, 47 C.F.R. $4 I. 106, 1.1 15, may be filed within 30 days of the date of the public
    notice indicating that this action was taken.




                                              3


                         ~~~              ~~~~




7-16. Name of Contact Representative (If other than applicant)

               Name:           William M. Wiltshire                 Phone Number:                       202-730-1350
               Company: Harris, Wiltshire & Grannis LLP             Fax Number:                         202-730- 1301
               Street:         1200 Eighteenth St., N.W.            E-Mail:
                               12 Floor
               City:           Washington                           State:                              DC
               Country:        USA                                  Zipcode:                            20036-
               Contact                                              Relationship:                       Legal Counsel
               Title:


ZLASSIFICATION OF FILING
    17. Choose the button next to the
    Aassification that applies to this filing for   (N/A) bl . Application for License of New Station
    loth questions a. and b. Choose only one        (N/A) b2. Application for Registration of New Domestic Receive-Only Station
    'or 17a and only one for 17b.                    @ (N/A) b3. Amendment to a Pending Application

      0 a1 . Earth Station                          0 (N/A) b4. Modification of Licensc or Registration
                                                    b5. Assignment of License or Rcgistration
      @   a2. Space Station                         b6. Transfer of Control of License or Registration
                                                     0 (N/A) b7. Notification of Minor Modification
                                                    (N/A) b8. Application for License of New Receive-Only Station Using Non-U.S. Licensed
                                                    Satellite
                                                    (NIA) b9. Letter of Intent to Use Non-US. Licensed Satellite to Provide Service in the United
                                                    States
                                                     Q (N/A) bl0. Other (Please specify)




2


      17c. Is a fee submitted with this application?
    Q  IfYes, complete and attach FCC Form 159. If No, indicate reason for fee exemption (see 47 C.F.R.Section 1.1114).
I 0 Governmental Entity           0 Noncommercial educational licensee
10 Other(p1ease explain):
    17d.

    Fee Classification CWY - Space Station Amendment(Geostationary)




    18. If this filing is in reference to an    19. If this filing is an amendment to a pending application enter both fields, if this filing is a
    existing station, enter:                    modification please enter only the file number:
    (a) Call sign of station:                   (a) Date pending application was filed:              (b) File number:
        S2641
                                                09/09/2004                                           SATRPL2004090900169




3


TYPE OF SERVICE
20. NATURE OF SERVICE: This filing is for an authorization to provide or use the following type(s) of service(s): Select all that apply:

       a. Fixed Satellite
       b. Mobile Satellite
    0c. Radiodetermination Satellite
    0d. Earth Exploration Satellite
       e. Direct to Home Fixed Satellite
    0f. Digital Audio Radio Service
       g. Other (please specify)


? 1. STATUS: Choose the button next to the applicable status. Choose    122. If earth station applicant, check all that apply.
mly one.                                                                 0    Using U.S. licensed satellites
0 Common Carrier @ Non-Common Carrier                                        Using Non-US. liccnsed satellites

13. If applicant is providng INTERNATIONAL COMMON CARRIER service, see instructions regarding Sec. 214 filings. Choose one. Are these
'acilities:
0 Connected to a Public Switched Network 0 Not connected to a Public Switched Network @ N/A
     24. FREQUENCY BAND(S): Place an 'X' in the box(es) next to all applicable frequency band(s).
      a. C-Band (4/6 GHz)          0
                            b. Ku-Band (12/14 GHz)
       c.Other (Please specify upper and lower frequencies in MHz.)
          Frequency Lower: 18300             Frequency Upper: 30000          (Please specify additional frequencies in an attachment)




4


TYPE OF STATION
    25. CLASS OF STATION: Choose the button next to the class of station that applies. Choose only one.
    0 a. Fixed Earth Station
    0 b. Temporary-Fixed Earth Station
    0 c. 12/14 GHz VSAT Network
    0 d. Mobile Earth Station
    @   e. Geostationary Space Station
    0 f. Non-Geostationary Space Station
    0 g. Other (please specify)

    16. TYPE OF EARTH STATION FACILITY
    0 TransmitlReceive 0 Transmit-Only              0 Receive-Only     @ N/A
    'For Space Station applications, select N/A."




5


PURPOSE OF MODIFICATION

27. The purpose of this proposed modification is to: (Place an ’X’ in the box(es) next to all that apply.)


    0a -- authorization to add new emission designator and related service
         b -- authorization to change emission designator and related service
    0c -- authorization to increase EIRP and EIEW density
         d -- authorization to replace antenna
         e -- authorization to add antenna
    0f -- authorization to relocate fixed station
    0g - authorization to change frequency(ies)
    0h -- authorization to add frequency
    0i -- authorization to add Points of Communication (satellites & countries)
        j - authorization to change Points of Communication (satellites & countries)
         k -- authorization for facilities for which environmental assessment and
radiation hazard reporting is required
     @ I -- authorization to change orbit location
     0m -- authorization to perform fleet management
     0n - authorization to extend milestones
         o -- Other (Please specify)




6


ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY

 28. Would a Commission grant of any proposal in this application or amendment have a significant environmental        0 Yes @   No
 impact as defined by 47 CFR 1.1307? IfYES, submit the statement as required by Sections 1.1308 and 1.1311 of
 the Commission’s rules, 47 C.F.R. 1.1308 and 1.131 1, as an exhibit to this app1ication.A Radiation Hazard Study
 must accompany all applications for new transmitting facilities, major modifications, or major amendments.



ALIEN OWNERSHIP Earth station applicants not proposing to provide broadcast, common carrier, aeronautical en route or
aeronautical fixed radio station services are not required to respond to Items 30-34.

 29. Is the applicant a foreign government or the representative of any foreign government?                            0   Yes @ No   0 NIA



 30. Is the applicant an alien or the representative of an alien?                                                      0   Yes @ No   0 NIA



3 1. Is the applicant a corporation organized under the laws of any foreign government?                                0   Yes @ No   0 NIA



32. Is the applicant a corporation of which more than one-fifth of the capital stock is owned of record or voted by    Q   yes   No   0 N/A
aliens or their representatives or by a foreign government or representative thereof or by any corporation organized
under the laws of a foreign country?




7


33. Is the applicant a corporation directly or indirectly controlled by any other corporation of which more than                4 Yes 0       No   Q   NIA
one-fourth of the capital stock is owned of record or voted by aliens, their representatives, or by a foreign
government or representative thereof or by any corporation organized under the laws of a foreign country?

       ~               ~




34. If any answer to questions 2 9 , 3 0 , 3 1 , 3 2 andor 33 is Yes, attach as an exhibit an identification of the aliens or   Exhibit A
foreign entities, their nationality, their relationship to the applicant, and the pcrcentage of stock they own or vote.



BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

35. Does the Applicant request any waivers or exemptions from any of the Commission’s Rules?                                        Q   Yes    4 No
IfYes, attach as an exhibit, copies of the requests for waivers or exceptions with supporting documents.




36. Has the applicant or any party to this application or amendment had any FCC station authorization or license                    0 Yes      4 No
revoked or had any application for an initial, modification or renewal of FCC station authorization, license, or
construction permit denied by the Commission? If Yes, attach as an exhibit, an explination of circumstances.




8


    37. Has the applicant, or any party to this application or amendment, or any party directly or indirectly controlling       0 Yes     @   No
    the applicant ever been convicted of a felony by any state or federal court? IfYes, attach as an exhibit, an
    explination of circumstances.




    38. Has any court finally adjudged the applicant, or any person directly or indirectly controlling the applicant,           Q   Yes   @   No
    guilty of unlawfully monopolizing or attemptiing unlawfully to monopolize radio communication, directly or
    indirectly, through control of manufacture or sale of radio apparatus, exclusive traffic arrangement or any other
    means or unfair methods of competitionffYes, attach as an exhibit, an explanation of circumstances




    39. Is the applicant, or any person directly or indirectly controlling the applicant, currcntly a party in any pending      0 Yes     @   No
    matter referred to in the preceding two items? If yes, attach as an exhinit, an explanation of the circumstances.




t   40. If the applicant is a corporation and is applying for a space station license, attach as an exhibit the names,
    address, and citizenship of those stockholders owning a record andor voting 10 percent or more of the Filer’s
    voting stock and the percentages so held. In the case of fiduciary control, indicate the beneficiary(ies) or class of    EXHIBIT B
    beneficiaries. Also list the names and addresses of the officers and directors of the Filer.

I




9


4 1. By checking Yes, the undersigned certifies, that neither applicant nor any other party to the application is           @   Yes      0 No
subject to a denial of Federal benefits that includes FCC benefits pursuant to Section 5301 of the Anti-Drug Act of
1988,21 U.S.C. Section 862, because of a conviction for possession or distribution of a controlled substance. See
47 CFR 1.2002(b) for the meaning of "party to the application" for these purposes.



42a. Does the applicant intend to use a non-U.S. licensed satellite to provide service in the Unitcd States? IfYes,         0 Yes        @   No
answer 42b and attach an exhibit providing the information specified in 47 C.F.R. 25.137, as appropriate. If No,
proceed to question 43.




42b. What administration has licensed or is in the process of licensing the spacc station? If no license will be issued, what administration has
coordinated or is in the process of coordinating the space station?



43. Description. (Summarize the nature of the application and the services to be provided). (If the complete description does not appear in this
box, please go to the end of the form to view it in its entirety.)
         The DirecTV Group, Inc. seeks to amend its pending satellite application to operate at
         102.8 WL rather than 103.05 WL. Please see Exhibit C for further information.


     I                                                                                                                                             I
Exhibit C




10


CERTIFICATION
The Applicant waives any claim to the use of any particular frequency or of the electromagnetic spcctrum as against the regulatory power of the
United States because of the previous use of the same, whether by license or otherwise, and requests an authorization in accordance with this
application. The applicant certifies that grant of this application would not cause the applicant to be in violation of the spectrum aggregation limil
in 47 CFR Part 20. All statements made in exhibits are a material part hereof and are incorporated herein as if set out in full in this application.
The undersigned, individually and for the applicant, hereby certifies that all statements made in this application and in all attached exhibits are
true, complete and correct to the best of his or her knowledge and belief, and are made in good faith.
44. Applicant is a (an): (Choose the button next to applicable response.)

 0 Individual
 0 Unincorporated Association
 0 Partnership
 Q    Corporation
 0 Governmental Entity
 0 Other (please specify)



     45. Name of Person Signing                                             46. Title of Person Signing
     Romulo Pontual                                                         Exec. VP & Chief Technology Officer



            WILLFUL FALSE STATEMENTS MADE ON THIS FORM ARE PUNISHABLE BY FINE AND / OR IMPRISONMENT
                    (US. Code, Title 18, Section 1001),AND/OR REVOCATION OF ANY STATION AUTHORIZATlON
                  (US. Code, Title 47, Section 312(a)( l)), AND/OR FORFEITURE (U.S. Code, Title 47, Section 503).




11


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The public reporting for this collection of information is estimated to average 2 hours per response, including the time for reviewing instructions,
searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the required data, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. If you
have any comments on this burden estimate, or how we can improve the collection and reduce the burden it causes you, please write to the
Federal Communications Commission, AMD-PERM, Paperwork Reduction Project (3060-0678), Washington, DC 20554. We will also accept
your comments regarding the Paperwork Reduction Act aspects of this collection via the Internet if you send them to jboley@fcc.gov. PLEASE
DO NOT SEND COMPLETED FORMS TO THIS ADDRESS.

Remember -You are not required to respond to a collection of information sponsorcd by the Federal government, and the government may not
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collection has been assigned an OMB control number of 3060-0678.

THE FOREGOING NOTICE IS REQUIRED BY THE PAPERWORK REDUCTION ACT OF 1995, PUBLIC LAW 104-13, OCTOBER
1,1995,44 U.S.C. SECTION 3507.




12


                                            Before the
                 FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
                                    Washington, D.C. 20554


                                                )
Application of                                  )
                                                )
THEDIRECTV GROUP,INC.                           )        Call Sign: S2191
                                                )
For Minor Amendment to Offset                   )        File No.
Operation of the DIRECTV IO                     )
Ka-band Satellite from 103.05' W.L. to          )
102.8" W.L.                                     1


                       APPLICATION FOR MINOR AMENDMENT

        The DIRECTV Group, Inc. ("DIRECTV") hereby requests that the Commission

amend its pending application for a geostationary Ka-band replacement satellite system at the

nominal 103" W.L. orbital location' to allow DIRECTV to operate at a slight offset -

specifically, at 102.8" W.L. This very minor repositioning ofthe satellite (combined with a

similar offset of a companion Ka-band satellite at 99" W.L.) will have major benefits for

subscribers receiving Direct-to-Home ("DTH") satellite services from this slot, as it will

enable them to receive a high-quality signal using a smaller dish, and will thereby promote

competition as well. In addition, this slight offset will enhance orbital management and

decrease the likelihood of in-orbit collision with other satellites. Moreover, as demonstrated

herein, the proposed minor modification is anticipated by Commission rules and will not

increase harmful interference to any other satellite system. In fact, the only satellite operator

potentially affected is a DIRECTV subsidiary licensed to operate at the nominal 101" W.L.

slot, which will still be able to use its Ka-band frequencies for their intended purpose.

'   See FCC File No. SAT-RPL-20040909-00169 (application for DIRECTV 10 satellite).


                                                    1


I.       CHANGES TO PREVIOUS TECHNICAL
                                    INFORMATION

         In this Application, DIRECTV seeks neither additional spectrum nor additional

orbital resources, but only a slight offset from its current licensed location consistent with the

Commission's rules. Amended applications need only identify the information in the

original application that is affected by the proposed change,2 and such information is

included in this Application and Technical Annex. DIRECTV hereby certifies that the

remaining information in its application has not ~ h a n g e d . ~

           In this case, the only aspects of the satellite's operations reflected in the Technical

Annex that will change as a result ofmoving the satellite from 103.05' W.L.4 to 102.8' W.L.

will be:

           Slightly revised sample link budgets for operations at this slightly offset location.

           Slightly revised sample link budgets for DIRECTV 8's Ka-band operations from the

           nominal 101 W.L. orbital location, demonstrating that moving DIRECTV 10 toward
                         O




          that slot will not cause harmful interference to its intended ~ e r v i c e .(The
                                                                                        ~ requested

           eastern offset will move the satellite away from the Ka-band slots to the west




*     Cf:47 C.F.R. 0 25.1 17(d). While the letter of this provision applies to modification requests, it applies a
     fortiori to amendments as well.

     This Application also includes revised ownership information that reflects the reincorporation of News
     Corporation in the United States.

     At the time the Commission assigned Ka-band orbital locations in the first processing round, the applicants
     for orbital locations between 95" W.L. and 105" W.L. agreed to operate their satellites with a nominal 0.05'
     offset to the west in order to increase separation from a Luxembourg satellite filing at 93.2" W.L. See
     Assignment of Orbital Locations to Space Stations in the Ka-Band, 13 FCC Rcd. 1030, Appendix A (Int'l
     Bur. 1997). This offset was recently made part of the DIRECTV's Ka-band authorization. See Public
     Notice, DA 04-3529 at 2 (rel. Nov. 5,2004).

     Note that these revised link budgets for 101" W.L. actually reflect operations of DIRECTV 8 from 100.85"
     W.L. and also include the effect of the companion shifl of the DIRECTV 11 satellite from 99.05" W.L. to
     99.2" W.L.


                                                          2


          (including at 105" W.L.), and so will not increase interference to operations at those

          locations.)

Because moving the satellite only 0.25" will have a de minimis affect on the predicted gain

contours, revised contours have not been submitted.

11.       THEPROPOSED MODIFICATION
                                WOULD SERVE THE PUBLIC INTEREST

          DIRECTV is currently authorized to operate a Ka-band system at the 103.05' W.L.

orbital location. As contemplated under Section 25.2 1OCj)(3) of the Commission's rules,6

DIRECTV requests that it be authorized to operate at a slight offset from this nominal

location, at 102.8" W.L. Although the requested offset is very small -just 0.25" W.L. - it

will create large benefits for consumers through improved system performance. Specifically,

when combined with a similar (albeit westward) offset DIRECTV has requested for the

companion DIRECTV 1 1 Ka-band satellite authorized to operate at 99" W.L., this very slight

relocation of the satellite will enable DIRECTV to reduce the size of the satellite dish used

by consumers to receive DIRECTV's Ka-band DTH signals. As a result, DIRECTV

subscribers will be able to use a single dish of a consumer-friendly size to receive high

definition programming (including HD local-into-local signals) from two Ka-band slots, as

well as programming from DIRECTV's DBS slots at 101" W.L., 110" W.L., and 119" W.L.

This will promote consumer acceptance of DIRECTV's new HD services and help

DIRECTV continue to provide robust competition to cable operators and other multichannel

video programming distributors, to the benefit of the American public.




      47 C.F.R. 5 25.210u)(3) (operations may be authorized at assigned orbital longitudes offset by 0.05"or
      multiples thereof from the nominal orbital location specified in the station authorization).



                                                        3


        Moreover, DIRECTV's proposal will achieve this improved performance and

enhanced competition without causing harmhl interference to any other operator. In fact, as

common sense would indicate, by moving slightly away from the adjacent 105" W.L. Ka-

band orbital location licensed to SES Americom, DIRECTV will not increase interference to

that slot (or any other slots located further West). The proposed offset will move DIRECTV

10 slightly closer to the 101 W.L. Ka-band orbital location licensed to a DIRECTV
                                O




subsidiary (DIRECTV Enterprises, LLC), which is planning to launch and operate

DIRECTV 8, a hybrid DBS/Ka-band satellite, next year. However, as the attached Technical

Annex demonstrates, the proposed offset will not prevent DIRECTV 8 from using its Ka-

band payload for its intended function of backhauling local programming from remote sites

to DIRECTV's broadcast centers.

        In addition, this slight offset will allow DIRECTV to operate DIRECTV 10 in a

station keeping volume that does not overlap with either of the other space stations (AMC-I

and Solidaridad-1) operating at the nominal 103"W.L. orbital location.? This proposal will

therefore advance the Commission's goal of decreasing the risk of in-orbit collision between

space stations' and also enhance the efficiency with which orbital resources are used.

        Thus, the proposed offset will have a direct and positive impact on the customer

experience of the DIRECTV service, further enhance competition, and enhance orbital risk

management - all without negatively impacting the operations of the DIRECTV system or


'   No other U.S. systems are currently seeking Commission authorization to operate at this nominal orbital
    location. Internationally, Canada, Tonga, and the United Kingdom currently have coordination requests on
    file at the ITU for satellite networks at 103" W.L., but DIRECTV has found no evidence that satellite
    construction contracts have been awarded for any of these networks, and notes that the FAA Commercial
    Space Station Second Quarter 2004 Report shows no pending launch for any of these networks.
*   See, e.g.,Mitigation of Orbitaal Debris, 19 FCC Rcd. 1 1567, 1 1588 (2004)(adopting requirements for CEO
    applicants to assess and coordinate station keeping volumes of any known satellites located at, or
    reasonably expected to be located at, a requested orbital location).


                                                     4


any other satellite system. The public interest clearly would be served by a grant of the

Application.

111.   WAIVER PURSUANT TO SECTION 304 OF THE COMMUNICATIONS                ACT

       In accordance with Section 304 of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, 47

U.S.C. fj 304, DlRECTV hereby waives any claim to the use of any particular frequency or

of the electromagnetic spectrum as against the regulatory power of the United States because

of the previous use of the same, whether by license or otherwise.

IV.    CONCLUSION

       The proposed 0.25" offset of DIRECTV 10 from its currently licensed orbital location

will enable DIRECTV to use a more consumer-friendly receive antenna that will allow it to

continue to provide the most potent competition possible to entrenched cable operators.

Moreover, this important improvement in performance for DIRECTV's system will not

compromise the operational abilities of any other satellite system, and in fact will allow for

safer and more effective management of orbital resources.

       For these reasons, DIRECTV submits that the proposed minor modification request is

in the public interest and respectfully requests that the Commission expeditiously grant this

request.

                                      Respectfully submitted,

                                      THEDIRECTV GROUP,INC.



                                      By:          \S\
                                              Romulo Pontual
                                              Executive Vice President and Chief
                                              Technology Officer




                                               5


                          ENGINEERING CERTIFICATION



        The undersigned hereby certifies to the Federal Communications Commission as
        follows:

(i)     He is the technically qualified person responsible for the engineering information
        contained in the foregoing Application for Minor Amendment,

(ii)    He is familiar with Part 25 of the Commission's Rules, and

(iii)   He has either prepared or reviewed the engineering information contained in the
        foregoing Application for Minor Amendment, and it is complete and accurate to
        the best of his knowledge and belief.



                                              Signed:


                                             /SI
                                             Jack Wengryniuk
                                             Senior Director
                                             DIRECTV Operations Inc.


                                             November 18,2004
                                             Date


TECHNICAL

 ANNEX


                   DIRECTV 10 Offset Operation Link Budget - National
DIRECW 10 at 102.8W                I            -
                                       National WDC Mode 3                           I   ClearSkv     I   Rain Dn

Uplink CIN (thermal), dB               Transmit power, dBW                                     7.6            7.6
Los Anaeles                            Transmit losses, dB                                    -2.0           -2.0
                                       Ground antenna gain, dB                                66.3           66.3
                                       Antenna pointing loss, dB                              -0.5           -0.5
29.3 GHz                               Free space loss, dB                                  -213.2         -213.2
                                       Atmospheric loss, dB                                   -1.1           -1.1
                                       Uplink rain loss, dB                                    0.0            0.0
                                       Satellite GTT, dB/K                                    18.0           18.0
                                       Bandwidth, dB-Hz                                      -74.8          -74.8
                                       Boltzmann's constant, dBW/Hz K                        228.6          228.6

Total Uplink CIN                                                                              28.9           28.9

Downlink CIN (thermal),dB              Satellite EIRP, dBW/36 MHz                             54.3           54.3
Washington, DC                         Free space loss, dB                                  -209.4         -209.4
                                       Atmospheric loss, dB                                   -1 .o          -1 .o
                                       Downlink rain loss, dB                                  0.0            -3.8
                                       Rain temp increase, dB                                  0.0            -3.1
                                       Rcv. antenna Dointina loss. dB                         -1 .o           -1 .o
                                       Antenna wetting + noise increase, dB                    0.0           -1 .o
                                       Ground G/T, dB/K                                       18.4           18.4
                                       Bandwidth, dB-Hz                                      -74.8          -74.8
                                       Boltzmann's constant, dBW/Hz K                        228.6          228.6

Total Downlink CIN                                                                            15.1    I       7.2

                                                                                         Clear Sky        Rain Dn
Totals                                 Uplink CIN (thermal), dB                               28.9           28.9
                                       Downlink C/N(thermal), dB                              15.1             7.2
                                       Total inter and intra-svstem CII. dB lincl.


                                   I   Total CIlN+I). dB                             I        12.0    I       6.5
                                       Required CI(N+I), dB (includes
                                       implementation margin)                                  5.2            5.2




                                              A- 1


                      DIRECTV 10 Offset Operation Link Budget - Spot Beam
DIRECN 10 at 102.8W                    I Spot Mode 5 (LA)                                I   Clear Sky    I   Rain Dn

Uplink CIN (thermal), dB                   Transmit power, dBW                                      7.6           7.6
Los Anaeles                                Transmit losses, dB                                     -2.0          -2.0
                                           Ground antenna gain, dB                                 66.3          66.3
                                           Antenna pointing loss, dB                               -0.5          -0.5
                                           Free space loss, dB                                  -213.2         -213.2
                                           Atmospheric loss, dB                                    -1.1          -1.1
                                           Uplink rain loss, dB                                     0.0           0.0
                                           Satellite GTT, dB/K                                     18.0          18.0
                                           Bandwidth, dB-Hz                                       -74.8         -74.8
                                           Boltzmann's constant, dBW/Hz K                        228.6          228.6

Total b l i n k CIN                                                                               28.9    I      28.9

Downlink CIN (thermal),dB                  Satellite EIRP, dBW/36 MHz                             57.5           57.5
Los Angeles                                Free space loss, dB                                  -209.3         -209.3
                                           Atmospheric loss, dB                                   -1 .o          -1 .o
                                           Downlink rain loss, dB                                  0.0           -1.4
                                       I   Rain temD increase. dB                                  0.0    I      -1.7
                                           Rcv. antenna pointing loss, dB                         -1 .o          -1 .o
                                           Antenna wetting + noise increase, dB                    0.0           -1 .o
                                           Ground GTT, dB/K                                       18.4           18.4
                                           Bandwidth, dB-Hz                                      -74.8          -74.8
                                           Boltzmann's constant, dBW/Hz K                        228.6          228.6

Total Downlink CIN                                                                                18.4    I      14.3

                                                                                             Clear Sky        Rain Dn
Totals                                     Uplink C/N (thermal), dB                               28.9           28.9
                                           Downlink CIN (thermal), dB                              18.4          14.3
                                           Total inter and intra-system CII, dB (incl.
                                           X-PO~, ASI, ACI, ABI, TX EIS)                          11.8           11.8

                                           Total C/(N+I), dB                                      10.9            9.8
                                           Required CI(N+I), dB (includes
                                           implementation margin)                                  7.9            7.9

                                           Margin, dB                                              3.0            1.9




                                                  A-2


                      DIRECTV 10 Offset Operation Link Budget - Backhaul
    DIRECTV 10 at 102.8W              I LA-CRK Backhaul Mode 3
                                      I
                                                                                        1
                                                                                        I
                                                                                            Clear Sky    I
                                                                                                         I
                                                                                                             Rain Dn

    Uplink CIN (thermal), dB              Transmit power, dBW                                     7.6             7.6
    Los Anaeles                           Transmit losses. dB                                    -2.0            -2.0
                                      I   Ground antenna gain, dB                                66.3    I
I                                     I   Antenna oointino lass, dB                              -0.5    I      -0.5
                                      I   Free space loss, dB                                  -213.2    I    -213 2
                                      I   AtmosDheric loss. dB                                   -1.1    I      -1.1    I
                                      I   Uplink rain loss, dB                                    0.0    I
I                                     I   Satellite GTT, dB/K




    Downlink CIN (thermal),dB             Satellite EIRP, dBW/36 MHz                             50.6           50.6
    Castle Rock                           Free space loss, dB                                  -209.3         -209.3
                                          Atmospheric loss, dB                                   -1.0           -1 .o
                                          Downlink rain loss. dB                                  0.0          -1 0.2
                                      I   Rain temp increase, dB                                  0.0           -3.9
                                      I   Rcv. antenna pointing loss, dB                         -1 .o          -1 .o
                                          Antenna wetting + noise increase, dB                    0.0           -1 .o
                                          Ground GTT, dB/K                                       32.4           32.4
                                          Bandwidth, dB-Hz                                      -74.8          -74.8
                                          Boltzmann’s constant, dBW/Hz K                        228.6          228.6

    Total Downlink CIN                                                                           25.5    I      10.4

                                                                                            Clear Sky        Rain Dn-
    Totals                                Uplink C/N (thermal), dB                               28.9           28.9
                                          Downlink C/N (thermal). dB                             25.5           10.4
                                          Total inter and intra-system CII, dB (incl.
                                          X-DOl. ASI. ACI. ABI. TX EISI                          15.6           15.6

                                          Total CI(N+I), dB                                      15.0            9.2
                                          Required CI(N+I), dB (includes
                                          implementation margin)                                  5.2            5.2

                                          Marain, dB                                              9.8            4.0




                                                 A-3


             DIRECTV 8 Pinched Operation Ka Band Link Budget - 24 MHz Backhaul
    DIRECTV 8 Ka Band, 100.85W       I Backhaul - PINCHED                  I   Clear Sky    I   Rain Dn

    Uplink CIN (thermal), dB             Transmit power, dBW                        13.7           13.7
    Castle Rock                          Transmit losses, dB                        -2.0           -2.0
                                         Ground antenna gain, dB                    66.8           66.8
                                         Antenna pointing loss, dB                  -0.5           -0.5
                                         Free space loss, dB                      -213.3         -213.3
                                         Atmospheric loss, dB                       -1.1           -1.1
                                         Uplink rain loss, dB                        0.0            0.0

                                     I Bandwidth, dB-Hz                            -73.0    I     -73.0
                                     I Boltzmann's constant, dBW/Hz K              228.6    I     228.6

    Total Uplink CIN                                                                28.1           28.1

    Downlink CIN (thermal),dB            Satellite EIRP, dBW/24 MHz                 41.8           41.8
    Los Angeles                          Free space loss, dB                      -209.9         -209.9
                                         Atmospheric loss, dB                       -1.0           -1.o
                                         Downlink rain loss, dB                      0.0           -9.3
                                         Rain temp increase, dB                      0.0           -3.7
                                         Rcv. antenna pointing loss, dB             -0.5           -0.5   ~




                                         Ground G/T. dB/K                           41 .O          41 .O
                                         Bandwidth, dB-Hz                          -73.0          -73.0
                                         Boltzmann's constant, dBW/Hz K            228.6          228.6

    Total Downlink CIN                                                              27.0           13.9

I                                    I                                     I   ClearSkv     I   Rain Dn       I
    Totals                               Uplink CIN (thermal), dB                   28.1           28.1
                                         Downlink C/N (thermal), dB                 27.0           13.9
                                         x-pol interference, dB                     22.9           22.9
                                         Aggregate C/I from AS1                     29.3           29.3
                                         Aaareaate CII from TX E/S (UILI            35.6           35.6

                                         Total CI(N+I), dB                          19.9           13.1
                                         Required CI(N+I), dB                        9.0            9.0

                                     I Margin, dB                                   10.9    I       4.1




                                                A-4


          DIRECTV 8 Pinched Operation Ka Band Link Budget - 36 MHz Backhaul
I DIRECTV 8 Ka Band. 100.85W      I   Backhaul   - PINCHED              1   ClearSkv     1   RainDn      I
 Uplink CIN (thermal), dB             Transmit power, dBW                        13.7            13.7
 Castle Rock                          Transmit losses, dB                        -2.0             -2.0
                                      Ground antenna gain, dB                    66.8            66.8
                                      Antenna Dointina loss. dB                  -0.5            -0.5
                                      Free space loss, dB                      -213.3          -213.3
                                      Atmospheric loss, dB                       -1.1            -1.1
                                      Uplink rain loss, dB                        0.0              0.0
                                      Satellite G K , dBIK                        8.9              8.9
                                      Bandwidth, dB-Hz                          -75.5           -75.5
                                  I   Boltzrnann's constant, dBWIHz K           228.6    I      228.6

 Total U d i n k CIN                                                             25.6    I       25.6

 Downlink CIN (thermal),dB            Satellite EIRP, dBWI36 MHz                 41.8           41.8
 Los Angeles                          Free space loss, dB                      -209.9         -209.9
                                      Atmospheric loss, dB                       -1 .o          -1 .o
                                      Downlink rain loss, dB                       0.0          -9.3
                                      Rain temp increase, dB                       0.0          -3.7
                                      Rcv. antenna pointing loss, dB              -0.5          -0.5
                                      Ground G/T, dBIK                           41 .O          41.O
                                      Bandwidth, dB-Hz                          -75.5          -75.5
                                      Boltzrnann's constant, dBWIHz K           228.6          228.6

 Total Downlink C/N                                                              24.5    I       11.4

                                                                            Clear Sky        Rain Dn
 Totals                               Uplink C/N (thermal), dB                    25.6          25.6
                                      Downlink CIN (thermal), dB                 24.5            11.4
                                      x-pol interference, dB                     22.9           22.9
                                      Aggregate CII from AS1                     27.5           27.5
                                      Aggregate CII from TX E/S (UIL)             33.9          33.9

                                      Total C/(N+I), d B                         18.6            10.9
                                      Required C/(N+I), dB                        9.0             9.0

                                  1 Margin, d B                                   9.6    1        1.9




                                             A-5


         DIRECTV 8 Pinched Operation Ka Band Link Budget - 54 MHz Backhaul
DIRECTV 8 Ka Band, 100.85W       II Backhaul - PINCHED              I
                                                                    I
                                                                        ClearSky     I
                                                                                     I
                                                                                         RainDn

Uplink CIN (thermal), dB          Transmit power, dBW                        13.7           13.7
Castle Rock                       Transmit losses, dB                        -2.0           -2.0
                                  Ground antenna gain, dB                    66.8           66.8
                                  Antenna pointing loss, dB                  -0.5           -0.5
                                  Free space loss, dB                      -213.3         -213.3
                                  Atmospheric loss, dB                       -1.1           -1.1




Total Downlink C/N                                                           23.5    1      10.4

                                                                        Clear Sky        Rain Dn
Totals                            Uplink C/N (thermal), dB                   24.6           24.6
                                  Downlink CIN (thermal), dB                 23.5            10.4
                                  x-pol interference, dB                     22.9           22.9
                                  Aggregate C/I from AS1                     25.8           25.8
                                  Aggregate C/I from TX E/S (UIL)             32.1          32.1

                                  Total C/(N+I), dB                          17.9            9.9
                                  Required C/(N+I), dB                        9.0            9.0




                                         A-6



Document Created: 2005-03-08 16:06:05
Document Modified: 2005-03-08 16:06:05

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