Spectrum allocation and licensing process.pptx

Spectrum allocation and licensing, highlighting the real-world regulatory challenges faced by satellite operators.

1. Spectrum allocation and licensing process highlighting real-world regulatory challenges faced by satellite operators.

2. 01 Spectrum allocation 02 Spectrum allocation levels 03 Licensing Process 04 Regulatory challenges 05 Conclusion

3. WHAT IS SPECTRUM ALLOCATION ? Spectrum allocation is the process of assigning specific frequency bands for different communication services (like mobile, broadcasting, or satellite).

4. Spectrum Allocation – Global & National Levels Global Level – ITU (International Telecommunication Union): The ITU, a United Nations agency, manages international spectrum allocation. It organizes the World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC) every 3–4 years to revise the Radio Regulations . Countries propose their requirements, and the ITU assigns frequency bands to services like Fixed Satellite Service (FSS), Broadcasting Satellite Service (BSS), etc. National Level – Regulatory Authorities: After global allocation, national authorities (like FCC in the USA, TRAI in India, Ofcom in the UK) assign spectrum to operators within their territories. This involves planning, frequency coordination, and licensing. National regulators ensure that satellite frequencies do not conflict with terrestrial networks.

5. LICENSING PROCESS Once frequency bands are allocated, satellite operators must obtain licenses to operate and use specific portions of the spectrum. Steps in Licensing: Application Submission: Operators submit technical details (orbit, coverage, power, etc.). Coordination and Notification: Through ITU and national authorities to avoid interference. Approval and Monitoring: Once approved, operators are monitored for compliance with regulations . Types of Licenses: Network License: For establishing and operating a satellite system. Spectrum License: For using a specific frequency band. Landing Rights License: For allowing foreign satellites to provide services in a country.

6. KEY CHALLENGES FACED BY SATELLITE OPERATORS Spectrum Congestion: Increasing demand from 5G, Wi-Fi, and LEO (Low Earth Orbit) constellations leads to overcrowding in key frequency bands (like Ku and Ka bands). Example: Conflicts between 5G terrestrial networks and satellite operators in the C-band (3.4–4.2GHz). Cross-Border Coordination: Satellites cover multiple countries, requiring coordination across jurisdictions. Example: ITU filings can take years to approve due to overlapping claims. Orbital Slot Competition: Limited geostationary orbital positions (GEO) near the equator create high competition. Countries with fewer technical resources struggle to secure orbital slots. Regulatory Delays and Complexity: Each nation has its own licensing rules, leading to long approval times and administrative burden. Interference Management: Coexistence between satellite systems and terrestrial 5G services can cause interference. Example: U.S. satellite TV providers (like Intelsat) had to clear C-band frequencies for 5G deployment. Evolving Mega-Constellations (e.g., Starlink, OneWeb): Thousands of satellites increase spectrum use and risk of interference. Regulators struggle to balance innovation with fair access and space sustainability.

7. CASE STUDIES Starlink (SpaceX):  FCC partial denial (2022) on interference; rejections in 20+ countries (e.g., India data rules). Success: 2023 approvals in UK/Australia; 2M+ users via agile tech (beamforming). Lesson: Lobbying + demos overcome hurdles. OneWeb:  Bankruptcy (2020) from access delays; revived via Eutelsat merger (2023) for 648 LEO satellites. Lesson: Alliances enable spectrum sharing. Iridium (1990s):  L-band over-allocation caused interference; $5B loss from market/regulatory mismatch. Lesson: Geopolitics can ground ambitions. REFERENCE ITU Radio Regulations (2020); FCC Spectrum Dashboard (2023). GSMA/NSR Reports; UCS Satellite Database

8. KEY TAKEWAYS Allocation/licensing: Multi-layered (ITU-global to national) enablers of satellite ecosystems, demanding precision to avoid interference. Challenges: Scarcity, delays, and fragmentation – but solvable via tech (AI spectrum management) and diplomacy. Operator Imperative: Early engagement in forums; partnerships for resilience. CONCLUSION Spectrum allocation and licensing ensure efficient and interference-free satellite communication. However, with rapid technological growth and global demand for connectivity, regulators and operators face significant challenges in managing limited spectrum resources, maintaining fair competition, and preventing interference across national and orbital boundaries .

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