FCC Issues First-Ever Space Debris Fine to Dish Network Over Failed Satellite Disposal

The FCC fined Dish Network $150,000 for improperly disposing of its EchoStar-7 satellite, marking the first enforcement action for space debris.
Dish admitted liability for failing to relocate the satellite to the required higher disposal orbit after it ran out of fuel.
The FCC highlighted concerns that the lower orbit could contribute to hazardous space debris.
Dish will implement a compliance plan focused on debris mitigation as part of the settlement.
The fine signals increased regulatory scrutiny amid a surge in satellite launches that could exacerbate the space debris problem.