Date of Award

December 2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Space Studies

First Advisor

Michael S. Dodge

Abstract

In pursuit of a safer and more sustainable space environment, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) introduced the 5-year deorbit rule, a regulatory mandate aimed at mitigating space debris by requiring satellite operators to remove their spacecraft from LEO within 5 years after their mission is complete. While the intent behind this rule is admirable in the desire to remediate and limit the generation of orbital debris, it raises questions whether it was crafted with consideration of all stakeholders, whether it will truly mitigate the creation of orbital debris, and whether it exhibits characteristics of arbitrariness and capriciousness. Agencies’ actions be grounded in reasoned analysis, supported by evidence, and devoid of arbitrary or irrational elements to prevent being considered arbitrary and capricious. As such, this calls into question whether the FCC's 5-year deorbit ruling aligns with these principles, particularly regarding its rationale for the rulemaking and potential impact on satellite operators, the scientific community, and the broader space environment. Through in-depth analysis, this study concludes the 5-year deorbit ruling written by the FCC was arbitrary and capricious.

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