The economics of delayed access : Developing nations and satellite technology

This paper examines the international economic imperatives underlying the allocation of the geostationary orbit in which communication satellites are located. The authors analyse the debate over various solutions to the exploding demand for the orbit that have been offered from time to time, such as spectrum leasing, differential rents and the establishment of stakeholder rights. An alternative solution is offered in the application of investment theory which enables developing countries to continue to reap mitigating benefits from the technology, despite the lack of ownership rights.