1. The role of spectrum in achieving interoperable governmental and commercial communications networks
Enrico Vassallo, ESA Frequency Management Office Head
30/09/2019

2. Network interoperability and spectrum
Interoperability between networks requires ‘inter-alia’ the use of the same frequency bands
Governmental networks typically operate in the frequency bands allocated to the Space Research Service (SRS) and the Earth Exploration-Satellite Service (EESS) as defined by the ITU Radio Regulations
Commercial networks typically operate in the frequency bands allocated to the Fixed Satellite Service (FSS) and the Mobile Satellite Service (MSS)
In most countries commercial operators can also engage in space research and especially earth exploration and have access to the same frequency bands (or subsets thereof) used by Governmental organizations
Frequency coordination between Governmental organizations and commercial operators is already in place in such bands

3. Current spectrum status
Use of commercial earth assets (Earth stations) to support Governmental missions is also already happening today
Next step would be for Governmental missions to seamlessly use commercial satellite assets
SRS and EESS allocated bands are only a few and rather narrow compared with FSS and MSS allocations
Future SRS and EESS satellites will generate increasing volumes of data and have requirements for reduced data latency therefore demanding larger spectrum availability
Spectrum scarcity problem would be solved if Governmental satellites could make use of existing satellites in the FSS and MSS bands to operate as data relay satellites

4. Use of FSS and MSS bands
There are currently no FSS or MSS allocations with a “(space-to-space)” directional indicator but only “(Earth-to-space)” or “(space-to-Earth)”
Studies to consider space-to-space transmissions in the FSS and MSS bands have to be performed to ensure compatible use of the same bands for space-to-space links and avoid harmful interference
Alternatively, new allocations to the Inter-Satellite Service (ISS) within existing FSS and MSS bands could be proposed
Addition of “(space-to-space)” directional indicator or of new ISS bands requires an ITU WRC decision (inclusion in the agenda of the next WRC, 4-years study cycle, favorable sharing conclusions, etc.)

5. 25 Ka-band Conference Panel
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