UK Radio Frequency Bands

137-138 METEOROLOGICAL- SATELLITE (Space-to-Earth)

 


SPACE OPERATION (Space-to-Earth)



SPACE RESEARCH (Space-to-Earth)



MOBILE-SATELLITE ((Space-to-Earth) 137-137.025 and 137.175-137.825)



Mobile Satellite ((Space-to-Earth) 137.025-137.175 and 137.825-138)

The FCC has allocated this band for operations using nongeostationary nonvoice mobile satellite systems (Little LEOS). METEOROLOGICAL- SATELLITE (Space-to-Earth)

 


SPACE OPERATION (Space-to-Earth)



SPACE RESEARCH (Space-to-Earth)



MOBILE-SATELLITE ((Space-to-Earth) 137-137.025 and 137.175-137.825)



Mobile Satellite ((Space-to-Earth) 137.025-137.175 and 137.825-138)

Worldwide use of polar orbiting satellites for transmission of weather pictures occurs in this band via the TIROS system. The satellite also transmits tracking and telemetry information.



NASA conducts satellite operations for the Advanced Technology Satellite (ATS) and High Energy Transient Experiment (HETE).



Government use of the mobile-satellite service is limited by US319 to earth stations operating with nongovernment satellites.

138-144     FIXED

 



MOBILE

This band is primarily used for nontactical military land-mobile communications essential to maintain DOD infrastructure-related functions. It is also used throughout the U.S. for critical military air-traffic and tactical communications. Specific functions for tactical training include air-ground-air communications for combat weapons training carried out in the vicinity of all major bases and military training areas in the U.S.. Also, this band is essential to the activities of the Air Force Auxiliary (Civil Air Patrol) and Coast Guard Auxiliary for support of search and rescue operations.
144-148 AMATEUR

 



AMATEUR-SATELLITE (144-146)

Weak signal modes (144-144.3), Repeaters and other modes (144.3-147.99)

 



Active use by amateur satellites worldwide (145.8-146)

   
148-149.9 MOBILE-SATELLITE (Earth-to-space)

 



SPACE OPERATIONS (Earth-to-space)(FN608)

The FCC has allocated this band for operations using nongeostationary nonvoice mobile satellite systems (Little LEOS). FIXED

 



MOBILE



MOBILE-SATELLITE (Earth-to-space)



SPACE OPERATIONS (Earth-to-space)(FN608)

This band is primarily used for nontactical military land-mobile communications essential to maintain DOD infrastructure-related functions. It is also used throughout the U.S. for critical military air-traffic and tactical communications. Specific functions for tactical training include air-ground-air communications for combat weapons training carried out in the vicinity of all major bases and military training areas in the U.S..

 



A TIROS command link operates in the band in accordance with Footnote 608. NASA conducts satellite operations for the Advanced Technology Satellite (ATS).



Also, this band is essential to the activities of the Air Force Auxiliary (Civil Air Patrol) and Coast Guard Auxiliary for support of search and rescue operations.



Government use of the mobile-satellite service is limited by US319 to earth stations operating with nongovernment satellites.

149.9-150.05 RADIONAVIGATION SATELLITE

 



MOBILE-SATELLITE (Earth-to-space)

The FCC has allocated this band for operations using nongeostationary nonvoice mobile satellite systems (Little LEOS). Commercial shipping makes extensive use of TRANSIT-SAT signals for radionavigation. RADIONAVIGATION SATELLITE

 



MOBILE-SATELLITE (Earth-to-space)

Government use of the mobile-satellite service is limited by US319 to earth stations operating with nongovernment satellites.
150.05-150.8     FIXED

 



MOBILE

This band is primarily used for nontactical military land-mobile communications essential to maintain DOD infrastructure-related functions. It is also used throughout the U.S. for critical military air-traffic and tactical communications. Specific functions for tactical training include air-ground-air communications for combat weapons training carried out in the vicinity of all major bases and military training areas in the U.S..
150.8-156.2475 LAND MOBILE Land transportation (150.8-150.98, 152.255-152.465), Public safety (150.98-151.4825, 154.6375-156.2475), Industrial (151.4825-151.4975, 152.465-152.495, 152.855-153.7325, 154.4825-154.6375), Industrial and Public safety (151.4975-152, 153.7325-154.4825), Domestic public (152-152.255, 152.495-152.855), Earth telecommand (154.2)    
156.2475-157.0375 MARITIME MOBILE In accordance with international agreements, this band is used worldwide for maritime communications.    
157.0375-157.1875     MARITIME MOBILE This band is critical to national VHF distress system communications associated with response to distress signals.
157.1875-157.45 MARITIME MOBILE In accordance with international agreements, this band is used worldwide for maritime communications.    
157.45-161.575 LAND MOBILE Land transportation (157.45-157.725, 159.48-161.575), Public safety (158.715-159.48), Industrial (157.725-157.755, 158.115-158.475), Domestic public (157.755-158.115)    
161.575-161.625 MARITIME MOBILE In accordance with international agreements, this band is used worldwide for maritime communications.    
161.625-161.775 LAND MOBILE Remote pickup broadcast    
161.775-162.0125 MARITIME MOBILE In accordance with international agreements, this band is used worldwide for maritime communications.    
162.0125-174 FIXED (173.2-173.4)

 



Land Mobile (173.2-173.4)



Fixed (US13 hydrological and meteorological data - designated frequencies)

Industrial, Public safety, Police radio for stolen vehicle recovery systems (173.075). FIXED (162.0125-173.2 and 173.4-174)

 



MOBILE (162.0125-173.2 and 173.4-174)

This band supports many Federal nontactical fixed and land-mobile uses. These uses are critical to Departments of Agriculture and Interior fire fighting, FAA windshear reporting, NOAA weather radio, Department of Interior land and resource management, including flash flood warning, earthquake/volcano monitoring, wildlife telemetry and law enforcement activities throughout the Federal Government. Law enforcement applications include land-based and maritime operations. Federal agencies began shifting operations to narrowband technologies in 1995.
174-216 BROADCASTING This band is used for VHF TV channels 7-13. Also, wireless microphones and auxiliary broadcasting systems operate on a secondary basis.    
216-220 MARITIME MOBILE

 



Fixed



Land Mobile



Aeronautical Mobile



Amateur (219-220)

This band is used on inland waterways by Automated Maritime Telecommunications Systems. The FCC has set aside the 218-219 portion of this band for the interactive video data service (IVDS).

 



Amateurs use this band for fixed point-to-point digital message forwarding systems.

MARITIME MOBILE

 



Radiolocation



Fixed



Aeronautical Mobile



Land Mobile

Though allocated secondary, there continue to be critical Federal radiolocation requirements in this band. The U.S. Navy operates the SPASUR system in the band 216.88-217.08 MHZ at several locations in the southern U.S. for the purpose of detecting Earth orbiting satellites. Assignments to the fixed and mobile service may be made on condition of no harmful interference to the SPASUR system (US229).
220-222 LAND MOBILE Various trunked and conventional data users operate mobile systems. The band is broken into 200 5 kHz channel pairs. LAND MOBILE

 



Radiolocation

This band is shared by the Federal Government and private sector for narrowband technologies. However, the Federal Government will relinquish its co-primary status on 125 non-nationwide channels concurrent with the FCC's adoption of final and effective rules to license those channels pursuant to competitive bidding.

 



Though allocated secondary, there continue to be critical Federal radiolocation requirements in this band.

222-225 AMATEUR Weak signal modes (222-222.15), repeaters, packet radio and other modes (222.15-225) Radiolocation Though allocated secondary, there continue to be critical Federal radiolocation requirements in this band.
225-328.6     FIXED (G27 military only)

 



MOBILE (G27 military only)



MOBILE-SATELLITE (G100 235-322 and 335.4-399.9, military only)

These bands are heavily used worldwide for critical military air-traffic control and tactical training communications. Specific functions of tactical training include air-ground-air communications for combat weapons training carried out at and in the vicinity of all major air bases and military training areas worldwide.

 



Tactical and strategic military satellite communications, essential to linking the activities of ground, air, surface, and subsurface mobile platforms, are conducted in this band under G100.



Also, rocket test and test data telemetry operations are performed in this band.

328.6-335.4 AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION Commercial aircraft use the Instrument Landing Systems (ILS) glideslope for approach and landing. AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION This band is set aside on a worldwide basis for operation of aircraft ILS glideslope signal and serves as a critical part of the National Airspace System. ILS service to international carriers is required under agreements with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
335.4-399.9     FIXED (G27 military only)

 



MOBILE (G27 military only)



MOBILE-SATELLITE (G100 235-322 and 335.4-399.9, military only)

These bands are heavily used worldwide for critical military air-traffic control and tactical training communications. Specific functions of tactical training include air-ground-air communications for combat weapons training carried out at and in the vicinity of all major air bases and military training areas worldwide.

 



Tactical and strategic military satellite communications, essential to linking the activities of ground, air, surface, and subsurface mobile platforms, are conducted in this band under G100.



Also, rocket test and test data telemetry operations are performed in this band.

399.9-400.05 RADIONAVIGATION SATELLITE

 



MOBILE-SATELLITE (Earth-to-space)

Commercial shipping makes extensive use of TRANSIT-SAT signals for radionavigation. RADIONAVIGATION SATELLITE

 



MOBILE-SATELLITE (Earth-to-space)

TRANSIT-SAT (polar orbiting satellite) downlink transmissions in this band support worldwide navigation.

 



Government use of the mobile-satellite service is limited by US319 to earth stations operating with nongovernment satellites.

400.05-400.15 STD FREQ & TIME   STD FREQ & TIME This band is set aside on a worldwide basis for distribution, via satellite, of standard time and frequency signals used for purposes such as industrial and scientific research. There is presently no use within the U.S.
400.15-406 METEOROLOGICAL AIDS (Radiosonde)

 



SPACE RESEARCH ((space-to-Earth) 400.15-401)



SPACE OPERATION (primary 401-402, secondary 400.15-401)



MOBILE-SATELLITE ((space-to-Earth) 400.15-401)



Meteorological satellite (401-403)



Earth Exploration Satellite ((Earth-to-space) 401-403)

Meteorological radiosondes and satellites

 



The FCC has allocated the 400.15-401 MHZ portion of this band for operations using nongeostationary nonvoice mobile satellite systems (Little LEOS).

METEOROLOGICAL AIDS (Radiosonde)

 



SPACE RESEARCH ((space-to-Earth) 400.15-401)



METEOROLOGICAL- SATELLITE ((space-to-Earth) 400.15-401)



Meteorological-satellite ((Earth-to-space) 401-403)



SPACE OPERATION (primary 401-402, secondary 400.15-401)



MOBILE-SATELLITE ((space-to-Earth) 400.15-401)



Earth Exploration Satellite ((Earth-to-space) 401-403)



Fixed (G6 military 403-406)



Mobile (G6 military 403-406)

This band is extensively used worldwide for gathering meteorological data for weather prediction, severe storm warning, public safety and research. The data is gathered by three technologies: satellite imagery, radiosondes, and wind profiler radars.

 



The Department of Commerce operates the GOES and TIROS-N satellites used for weather tracking and prediction. This information is essential for severe storm notification and public safety, and is used daily in TV and radio broadcast weather reporting to the public.



The DOD plans to implement Defense Meteorological Satellite Program (DMSP) downlinks to furnish weather data to light-weight, highly transportable DOD terminals intended for a variety of tactical missions.



Radiosondes are operated nationwide by numerous Federal agencies to gather local weather data. These small, inexpensive transmitters are attached to balloons and provide wind velocity, temperature, atmospheric pressure and humidity at various altitudes. Their availability is essential to aviation activities, as well as space launches. The data gathered by radiosondes are exchanged internationally for worldwide weather prediction and research.



Government use of the mobile-satellite service is limited by US319 to earth stations operating with nongovernment satellites.

406-406.1 MOBILE SATELLITE (Earth-to-space) Emergency position beacons MOBILE SATELLITE (Earth-to-space) Emergency position beacons are operated in this band on a worldwide basis, supported by the joint U.S. SARSAT/Soviet COSPAS satellite network for worldwide air, sea, and land rescue.
406.1-420 RADIO ASTRONOMY (406.1-410) Fixed (US13 hydrological and meteorological data - designated frequencies) FIXED

 



MOBILE



RADIO ASTRONOMY (406.1-410)



Space Research ((space-to-space) 410-420)

This band is one of the principal bands supporting Federal land-mobile communications. Important functions include law enforcement, protection of the President and other dignitaries, resource management, disaster and emergency response, security alarms, command destruct of launch vehicles to avoid loss of life and property, and support for public health and power generation activities. This band will accommodate future growth from the very congested 162-174 MHZ band. Communications using trunking techniques are being implemented by many agencies to ensure efficient spectrum use. Federal agencies began shifting operations to narrowband technologies in 1995.

 



Fixed links are used in this band for transmission of airport windshear data, flood warning and other environmental data, for law enforcement, for public dissemination of weather warning and disaster information, and for other critical activities.



There are also radio astronomy observations at several sites across the U.S.

420-450 Amateur

 



Amateur Satellite (FN664 435-438)

Amateur weak signal modes (432-433), television (420-432, 438-444), repeaters (442-450), auxiliary links (433-435). There is also some use of spread spectrum and other modes. Amateur satellite activities are conducted (435-438) under RR 664.

 



Land mobile systems are operated along the Canadian border in accordance with US 230.

RADIOLOCATION This band is used for long-range surveillance on land-based, ship, and airborne platforms. These uses are essential to the nation's early warning capability, law enforcement, and tracking objects in space. These systems operate with very high power and wide bandwidths.

 



This band is becoming increasingly important for detection of low observable targets. This band is the only military radiolocation band currently available for this frequency sensitive function.



Federal agencies operate wind profilers at 449 MHZ for measurement of wind speed and direction at various altitudes.



NASA and military use of telemetry and telecommand is also extensive.

450-470 LAND MOBILE

 



Earth Exploration-Satellite (US201 460-470)



Space Research and Space Operations (FN668 450 MHZ)

Remote pickup broadcast (450-451, 455-456)

 

Public safety, industrial, land transportation (451-454, 456-459, 460-462.5375, 462.7375-467.5375, 467.7375-470)

Domestic public (454-455, 459-460)

Personal (462.5375-462.7375, 467.5375-467.7375)

Meteorological Satellite (460-470)

 



Earth Exploration-Satellite (US 201 460-470)



Space Research and Space Operations (FN668 450 MHZ)

GOES satellite downlinks for integration of data collection platforms operate in this band.

 



Veteran's medical programs depend upon the use of biomedical telemetry and telecommunications in conjunction with nongovernment medical activities.

470-512 BROADCASTING

 



LAND MOBILE

TV channels 14-20, Public safety, Industrial, Land transportation, Domestic public    
512-608

 

BROADCASTING TV channels 21-36, Auxiliary broadcasting    
608-614 RADIO ASTRONOMY   RADIO ASTRONOMY There are few Federal assignments in this band for other than experimental use. However, radio astronomy usually involves passive operations that do not require an assignment. This band is used for international collaborations in Very Long Baseline Interferometry and will continue to be used for this purpose as the VLBA antennas come on line. The band is also used for observations by the Air Force Radio Solar Telescope Network.
614-806 BROADCASTING TV channels 38-69, Auxiliary broadcasting    
806-902 LAND MOBILE Private land mobile (806-824, 851-869, 896-901)

 

Domestic public land mobile (824-849, 869-894)

Aeronautical public correspondence-airphone (849-851, 894-896)

General purpose mobile (901-902)

  This band is used for high-power U.S. Navy shipborne long-range search radars under footnotes US268 and G2. These radars serve a critical role in defense of the fleet.
902-928 Amateur Amateur weak signal modes (902-904), digital communications, repeaters, spread spectrum and other modes (904-928).

 



Automatic vehicle monitoring (902-912 and 918-928 as authorized by FN US218), ISM, and Part 15 spread spectrum devices.



This band is also used for a variety of ISM applications, particularly industrial heating and food processing.

RADIOLOCATION

 



Fixed (G11)



Mobile (G11)

This band is used predominantly for military radiolocation systems. These include low-power devices, such as those for tactical and nontactical intrusion detection at military facilities, and high-power radars used for long-range search, many of which are employed on U.S. Navy ships and aircraft or at shore stations. These radars serve a critical role in defense of the fleet.

 



Federal mobile communications applications include video surveillance for law enforcement missions, transmission of infrared scanner imagery during overflights of disaster areas, and use of high power packet radio systems.



Fixed use includes point-to-point TV links for monitoring unmanned ports of entry along borders. Though most low capacity links will be moving to the 932-935 MHZ and 941-944 MHZ bands, this band will continue to be used for a variety of resource management, power administration and law enforcement purposes, as necessary.

928-929 FIXED Private fixed microwave, Domestic public land mobile, Private land mobile. Systems in this band provide one way and two way interrogate/response data transmission services such as: remote control of electric power networks, burglar and fire alarm monitoring, and other telemetry applications. For two way systems, the band is paired with 952-953 MHZ band.    
929-932 LAND MOBILE Domestic public land mobile, Private land mobile    
932-935

 

FIXED This band is paired with the 941-944 MHZ band and channelized for point-to-point voice and data services. The 932-932.5 MHZ end of the band is used for the single channel response from a remote location for point to multipoint multiple address services. FIXED The 932-935 MHZ and 941-944 MHZ bands are shared by government and nongovernment fixed service users. It has recently been allocated for Federal use. Use for low-capacity fixed systems is anticipated.

 



Many Federal agencies expect heavy government and nongovernment use for point-to-point and point-to-multipoint communications. Functions include support for aviation activities, remote meter reading for electric power marketing, and light route radio relay. The latter includes reaccommodation of light route systems from higher bands.

935-941 LAND MOBILE Private land mobile trunked and conventional systems in 12.5 kHz channels paired with 896-901 MHZ.    
941-944 FIXED This band is paired with the 932-935 MHZ band and channelized for point-to-point voice and data services. The 932-932.5 MHZ end of the band is used for the single channel response from a remote location for point to multipoint multiple address services. FIXED The 932-935 MHZ and 941-944 MHZ bands are shared by government and nongovernment fixed service users. It has recently been allocated for Federal use. Use for low-capacity fixed systems is anticipated.

 



Many Federal agencies expect heavy government and nongovernment use for point-to-point and point-to-multipoint communications. Functions include support for aviation activities, remote meter reading for electric power marketing, and light route radio relay. The latter includes reaccommodation of light route systems from higher bands.

944-960 FIXED Auxiliary broadcasting, Domestic public fixed, International fixed public, Private fixed microwave. The 944-952 MHZ is portion is used primarily for radio broadcast stations studio-to-transmitter links (STLs) and intercity relays. These carry frequency modulated stereophonic audio program material, plus ancillary carriers for remote control of transmitters and Subsidiary Communications Authorization (SCA) channels. The 952-953 MHZ portion is used in combination with 928-929 MHZ. The 953-960 MHZ portion is primarily used for fixed point-to-point communications. The band is segmented as 953.00-956.15 MHZ for go and 956.55-959.75 MHZ for return operation.    
960-1215 AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION This band is heavily used for safety-of-life services within the national and international airspace systems. Nearly all aspects of aircraft identification, tracking, control, navigation, collision avoidance, and landing guidance are carried out. Major aeronautical radionavigation systems in this band include the Distance Measuring Equipment (DME/P), Air Traffic Control Beacons (ATCRBS), Mode-S, and the Collision Avoidance System (T-CAS). All systems support civil and military aircraft. Systems in this band are developed internationally and agreed to by Civil Aviation Organization for standardization of air travel throughout the world. AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION This band is heavily used for safety-of-life services within the national and international airspace systems. Nearly all aspects of aircraft identification, tracking, control, navigation, collision avoidance, and landing guidance are carried out. Major aeronautical radionavigation systems in this band include the Distance Measuring Equipment (DME/P), Air Traffic Control Beacons (ATCRBS), Mode-S, the military's tactical air navigation system (TACAN) and IFF/SIF systems, and the Traffic Alert and Collision Avoidance System (T-CAS). These aeronautical systems are not only essential to civil and military aircraft, but also to special users such as the U.S. Space Shuttle Program. These systems are used throughout the world under International Civil Aviation Organization agreements.

 



Under US224, the military departments are using this band for integrated communications and navigation through the Joint Tactical Information Distribution System (JTIDS) on a non-interference basis. JTIDS is part of an updated NATO system that provides highly secure, jam resistant communications in a hostile environment.

1215-1240 Earth Exploration-Satellite and Space Research (FN713 using radiolocation)   RADIONAVIGATION SATELLITE (space-to-Earth)

 



RADIOLOCATION



Earth Exploration-Satellite and Space Research (FN713 using radiolocation)

The frequency 1227.6 MHZ is designated for the Global Positioning System (GPS) as part of the radionavigation satellite service. This is a multisatellite system (up to 24 are planned) with large numbers of U.S. and international users.

 



This band is jointly used by the FAA and DOD for radiolocation performing long-range air surveillance and safety-of-flight enroute air-traffic control under Joint surveillance System agreements. The military services make use of the band for high-power long-range surveillance radars on land and ships in support of national defense missions. The DOD and FAA are implementing a joint program to field a modernized Air-Route Surveillance Radar Model 4 (ARSR-4) in this band for air-defense, drug interdiction and air-traffic control.



A recent radiolocation application, having high national priority, is the use of radar equipment in support of drug interdiction efforts. In this application, radar equipment is mounted on tethered balloons along the southern border of the U.S. to detect low-flying aircraft entering U.S. airspace. Data is relayed to ground and appropriate action taken.



Space research and Earth-exploration satellite activities for microwave sensor measurements of ocean wave surface are performed by NASA.

1240-1300 Amateur

 



Amateur-Satellite (FN664 1260-1270)



Earth Exploration-Satellite and Space Research (FN713 using radiolocation)

Amateur television (1240-1246, 1252-1258, 1276-1282), weak signal modes (1295.8-1297), other modes through the band. Active use of amateur satellite (Earth-to-space) in accordance with Footnote 664. RADIOLOCATION

 



AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION (FN714)



Earth Exploration-Satellite and Space Research (FN713 using radiolocation)

This band is used heavily for radiolocation and radionavigation performing long-range air surveillance and enroute air-traffic control functions. The FAA and aviation users depend upon air-route surveillance radars (ARSRs) to obtain aircraft position information in support of enroute air-traffic control. The military makes use of it for high-power long-range surveillance and air-traffic control in support of national defense missions.

 



A recent radiolocation application, having high national priority is the use of radar equipment in support of drug interdiction efforts. In this application, radar equipment is mounted on tethered balloons along the southern border of the U.S. to detect low-flying aircraft entering U.S. airspace. Data is relayed to ground and appropriate action taken.



NASA radiolocation activities in the 1240-1300 MHZ band are for an experimental multi-spectral imaging radar using synthetic aperture (side-looking) techniques.



NASA also uses this band for space research and Earth-exploration satellite in conjunction with microwave sensor measurements of ocean wave surface.

1300-1350 AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION   AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION

 



Radiolocation

This band is used heavily for radiolocation and radionavigation performing long-range air surveillance and enroute air-traffic control functions. The FAA and aviation users depend upon air-route surveillance radars (ARSRs) to obtain aircraft position information in support of enroute air-traffic control. The Air Force and Navy make use of it for high-power long-range surveillance radars and air-traffic control radars, in support of national defense missions. The DOD and FAA are implementing a joint program to field a modernized Air-Route Surveillance Radar Model 4 (ARSR-4) in this band for air-defense, drug interdiction and air-traffic control.

 



A recent radiolocation application, having high national priority is the use of radar equipment in support of drug interdiction efforts. In this application, radar equipment is mounted on tethered balloons along the southern border of the U.S. to detect low-flying aircraft entering U.S. airspace. Data is relayed to ground and appropriate action taken.



Radio astronomy observations of highly redshifted hydrogen atoms occur in the 1330-1350 MHZ band.

1350-1400     FIXED

 



MOBILE



RADIOLOCATION



AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION (FN714 1350-1370)



FIXED SATELLITE ((space-to-Earth) G114 1381.5)



MOBILE SATELLITE ((space-to-Earth) G114 1381.5)



Earth Exploration-Satellite and Space Research (FN720 1370-1400)

This band is heavily used for various military radiolocation applications for high-power long-range surveillance radars. The DOD and FAA are implementing a joint program to field a modernized Air-Route Surveillance Radar Model 4 (ARSR-4) in this band for air-defense, drug interdiction and air-traffic control.

 



GPS operates on 1381.05 to relay data on nuclear bursts detected by orbiting satellites. GPS is a multisatellite system with large numbers of U.S. and international users, however this specific requirement is limited to U.S. users.



Radio astronomy observations of highly redshifted hydrogen atoms occur in this band. Knowledge of other galaxies and the early universe comes from these observations. NASA performs passive space research and earth-exploration satellite observations.



This band is seeing increased use for fixed links and mobile links, since the Federal fixed and mobile service allocations were upgraded to primary in 1989.



DoD uses this band for drone telecommand at military test ranges.



NTIA will reallocate the 1390-1400 MHZ portion of this band for nonfederal use after January 1999.

1400-1427 RADIO ASTRONOMY

 



EARTH EXPLORATION SATELLITE (Passive)



SPACE RESEARCH (Passive)

  RADIO ASTRONOMY

 



EARTH EXPLORATION SATELLITE (Passive)



SPACE RESEARCH (Passive)

This band has been set aside nationally for passive operations and no stations are authorized to transmit. There are no Federal assignments in this band.

 



Radio astronomy including the spectral line observations of neutral atomic hydrogen, continuum observations and Radio Solar Telescope Network observations allow study of the structure of our galaxy as well as others.



NASA performs passive space research and earth-exploration satellite observations. This band is extremely important for measurements of land moisture and salinity, and ocean surface characteristics.

1427-1435 SPACE OPERATION ((Earth-to-space) 1427-1429)

 



Land Mobile



Fixed

Private land mobile, Satellite communications FIXED

 



MOBILE



SPACE OPERATION ((Earth-to-space) 1427-1429)

This band is used to support a variety of military fixed and mobile applications. Functions include tactical/training operations, light route radio relay, telemetry and telecommand including command of missiles and RPVs, and automatic target scoring.

 



There are also some fixed operations planned for use in Federal resource management programs.



NTIA will reallocate the 1427-1432 MHZ portion of this band for nonfederal use after January 1999.

1435-1530 MOBILE This band is heavily used for aeronautical telemetry and telecommand. This is crucial to industry research, development, and testing of aircraft and missile systems. MOBILE This band is heavily used for aeronautical telemetry and telecommand. This is crucial to NASA, and DOD research, development, and testing of aircraft and missile systems. Many of the assignments in the 1435-1525 MHZ band are for missile test telemetry. The use of small devices with omnidirectional antennas require frequencies below 3 GHz. Aeronautical telemetry needs extensive spectrum, and minimal in-band and adjacent band interference. Equipment using this band have been built into many missile and aircraft platforms and have been tailored to those specific electromagnetic environments. This band is congested in many areas and new systems are being moved to 2360-2390 MHZ.

 



Also, DOE uses the band for telemetry in nuclear research and development efforts. Use of this band is dictated by the need for equipment mobility and small antennas.

1530-1544 MARITIME MOBILE SATELLITE (space-to-Earth)

 



Mobile (aeronautical telemetry 1530-1535)

The major use in this band is for INMARSAT downlinks providing distress, safety, and general communications. This system is used currently by 17,000 ships throughout the world, including extensive operations within inland waterways for ship-to-shore communications. The number of users is expected to reach 40,000 within the next 10 years. Its use for distress and safety communications is part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS). This international application is tied to and required by international treaty resulting from the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention. INMARSAT also provides satellite supported aeronautical public correspondence and some land mobile satellite service downlinks. MARITIME MOBILE SATELLITE (space-to-Earth)

 



Mobile (aeronautical telemetry 1530-1535)

Federal vessel operators participate in the use of the INMARSAT/GMDSS system. The Navy uses the INMARSAT system for international communications in ocean areas from its Military Sealift Command vessels operated by civilian crews.

 



The Air Force and Navy use the 1525-1535 MHZ portion of this band for aeronautical telemetry on a secondary basis when such operation does not conflict with the primary operation.

1544-1545 MOBILE SATELLITE (space-to-Earth) Solely used for distress and safety. MOBILE SATELLITE (space-to-Earth) This band is used by SARSAT for a downlink to relay satellite EPIRB transmissions.
1545-1559 AERONAUTICAL MOBILE SATELLITE (R) (space-to-Earth)

 



MOBILE SATELLITE ((space-to-Earth) primary 1549.5-1558.5, secondary 1545-1549.5)

This band will be used for the downlink for the nationwide mobile satellite system authorized by the FCC. This system will be operated by the American Mobile Satellite Corporation, a consortium of eight U.S. companies. Mobile satellite services are expected to grow rapidly. Included within this frequency range is the internationally allocated 1545-1555 MHZ AMS(R)S allocation (space-to-Earth) to support the worldwide interoperable AMS(R)S through a number of satellites. In accordance with US308, AMS(R)S has priority and real-time preemptive access in this band segment. AERONAUTICAL MOBILE SATELLITE (R) (space-to-Earth)

 



MOBILE SATELLITE ((space-to-Earth) primary 1549.5-1558.5, secondary 1545-1549.5)

Federal agencies will make use of mobile satellite operations in this band.
1559-1610 AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION

 



RADIONAVIGATION SATELLITE (space-to-Earth)



Aeronautical Mobile (US260)

Private sector use of GPS is extensive for land, sea, and air radionavigation. Other uses of GPS include surveying, aircraft landing aids, position location, traffic management, and scientific research. AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION

 



RADIONAVIGATION SATELLITE (space-to-Earth)



Aeronautical Mobile (US260)

The Global Positioning System operates on a center frequency of 1575.42 MHZ in this band as part of the radionavigation satellite service. This is a multisatellite system with large numbers of U.S. and international users. ICAO has recognized the GPS and GLONASS as the two principal candidates for the Global Navigation Satellite System.
1610-1626.5 AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION

 



AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION-SATELLITE (FN732)



RADIO

DETERMINATION-SATELLITE (Earth-to-space)



MOBILE-SATELLITE (Earth-to-space)



RADIO ASTRONOMY (1610.6-1613.8)



Mobile-Satellite ((space-to-Earth) 1613.8-1626.5)



Aeronautical Mobile (US 260)

There is one active private sector RDSS systems. However, the FCC has granted two applications for low-earth and geostationary orbit mobile satellite systems to provide voice and high data rate communications (Big LEOS). AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION

 



AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION-SATELLITE (FN732)



RADIO

DETERMINATION-SATELLITE (Earth-to-space)



MOBILE-SATELLITE (Earth-to-space)



RADIO ASTRONOMY (1610.6-1613.8)



Mobile-Satellite ((space-to-Earth) 1613.8-1626.5)



Aeronautical Mobile (US260)

This band has been reserved on a worldwide basis for development and use of airborne electronic aids to air navigation.

 



Recent changes were made to allocate this band to radiodetermination satellite service uplinks on a primary basis. Federal agencies have begun leasing access to systems in this service and increased use is expected.



Radio Astronomy observations of the OH radical are carried out between 1610.6 and 1613.8 MHZ. The OH line observations are crucial to understanding interstellar medium and star formation.



Government use of mobile-satellite and radiodetermination-satellite services is limited to earth stations operating with nongovernment satellites.

1626.5-1645.5 MARITIME MOBILE SATELLITE (Earth-to-space)

 



MOBILE SATELLITE (Earth-to-space)

A major use of this band is for INMARSAT ship earth stations. These systems are used currently by 17,000 ships throughout the world, including extensive operations within inland waterways for ship-to-shore communications. The number of users is expected to reach 40,000 within the next 10 years. Its use for distress and safety communications is part of the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System. This international application is tied to and required by international treaty resulting from the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) Convention. INMARSAT also provides satellite supported aeronautical public correspondence and some land mobile satellite service downlinks. MARITIME MOBILE SATELLITE (Earth-to-space)

 



MOBILE SATELLITE (Earth-to-space)

Federal agencies make active use of the mobile-satellite operations for land, air, and maritime communications. The Navy uses the INMARSAT system for international communications in ocean areas.
1645.5-1646.5 MOBILE SATELLITE (Earth-to-space) Solely used for distress and safety. MOBILE SATELLITE (Earth-to-space) There are no operational Federal assignments in this band; however, this band is used for distress and safety operations. Plans exist for satellite EPIRBS and relay of distress and safety signals between satellites.
1646.5-1660.5 AERONAUTICAL MOBILE SATELLITE (R) (Earth-to-space)

 



MOBILE SATELLITE ((Earth-to-space) primary 1651-1660, secondary 1646.5-1651)



RADIO ASTRONOMY (1660-1660.5)

INMARSAT II operates 1646.5-1649.5 MHZ

 



This band is used for the uplink for the nationwide mobile satellite system operated by the American Mobile Satellite Corporation, a consortium of eight U.S. companies. Mobile satellite services are expected to grow rapidly.

AERONAUTICAL MOBILE SATELLITE (R) (Earth-to-space)

 



MOBILE SATELLITE ((Earth-to-space) primary 1651-1660, secondary 1646.5-1651)



RADIO ASTRONOMY (1660-1660.5)

This band is used for the uplink for the nationwide mobile satellite system operated by the American Mobile Satellite Corporation, a consortium of eight U.S. companies. Mobile satellite services are expected to grow rapidly, including many Federal users. Included within this frequency range is the internationally allocated 1646.5-1656.5 MHZ AMS(R)S allocation (Earth-to-space) to support the worldwide interoperable AMS(R)S through a number of satellites. In accordance with US308, AMS(R)S has priority and real-time preemptive access in this band segment.

 



Passive radio astronomy observations of the redshifted spectral line of the OH radical, essential for understanding interstellar medium and star formation in other galaxies, are carried out in this band.

1660.5-1670 RADIO ASTRONOMY

 



SPACE RESEARCH ((Passive) 1660.5-1668.4)



METEOROLOGICAL AIDS ((Radiosonde) 1668.4-1670)

  RADIO ASTRONOMY

 



SPACE RESEARCH ((Passive) 1660.5-1668.4)



METEOROLOGICAL AIDS ((Radiosonde) 1668.4-1670)

The 1660.5-1668.4 portion of this band has been set aside nationally for passive operations and no stations are authorized to transmit. There are no Federal assignments in this range.

 



Passive radio astronomy observations are performed under the protection of US246 (transmissions prohibited). Observation of the two spectral lines of the OH radical (1665.402 and 1667.359 MHZ), essential for understanding interstellar medium and star formation in other galaxies, are carried out in this band. The band is also used for continuum observations.



Radiosondes are operated nationwide by numerous Federal agencies to gather local weather data. These small inexpensive transmitters are attached to balloons and provide wind velocity, temperature, atmospheric pressure and humidity at various altitudes. The availability is essential to aviation activities, as well as space launches. The data gathered by radiosondes are exchanged internationally for worldwide weather prediction and research.

1670-1710 METEOROLOGICAL AIDS (Radiosonde)

 



METEOROLOGICAL SATELLITE (space-to-Earth)



Fixed (1700-1710)



Earth Exploration-Satellite (FN671 1690-1710)

  METEOROLOGICAL AIDS (Radiosonde)

 



METEOROLOGICAL SATELLITE (space-to-Earth)



FIXED (1700-1710)



Earth Exploration-Satellite (FN671 1690-1710)

This band is extensively used worldwide for gathering meteorological data for weather prediction, severe storm warning, public safety and research. This data is gathered by two technologies: radiosondes and satellite imagery. NTIA has reallocated the 1670-1675 MHZ portion of this band for nonfederal use after January 1999.

 



Radiosondes are operated nationwide by numerous Federal agencies to gather local weather data. These small inexpensive transmitters are attached to balloons and provide wind velocity, temperature, atmospheric pressure and humidity at various altitudes. The availability is essential to aviation activities, as well as space launches. The data gathered by radiosondes are exchanged internationally for worldwide weather prediction and research. Also, NASA uses this band for transmission of meteorological data from tethered balloons.



The Department of Commerce operates the GOES and TIROS-N satellites used for weather tracking and prediction. This information is essential for severe storm notification and public safety, and is used daily in TV and radio broadcast weather reporting to the public. Most of the meteorological satellite users are earth stations that receive the satellite data. The assignments in this band for earth terminals are primarily for fixed locations; however, over 40 are planned for shipboard use in the U.S. coastal waters.



Some agencies have begun using the 1700-1710 MHZ band for fixed line-of-sight data communications as the 1710-1850 MHZ band gets crowded.

1710-1850 Radio Astronomy (US256 1718.8-1722.2)   FIXED

 



MOBILE



SPACE OPERATION ((Earth-to-space) G42 (1761-1842)



Radio Astronomy (US256 1718.8-1722.2)

1710-1850 MHZ is the predominant Federal medium-capacity line-of-sight fixed service band. Fixed links are operated by Federal agencies for voice, data, and/or video communications where commercial service is unavailable, excessively expensive, or cannot meet required reliability. Applications include law enforcement networks, and control links for various power, land, water, and electric-power management systems. Other specialized fixed links include video relay, data relay, and timing distribution signals. Growth averages about 400 new assignments per year.

 



Specific agency applications of the fixed service include: FAA remote data transmission of critical flight safety data in support of essential aeronautical services, Army tactical radio relay systems, Department of Agriculture and Interior backbone links for control of land mobile radio systems necessary in fire fighting, law enforcement and disaster control within national forests and for provision of voice and data connections between sites where commercial service is not available, and Departments of Treasury and Justice microwave links related to law enforcement.



One example of a wide area fixed network is the Department of Energy's use of this band for supervision, control, and protection of power administration operated electrical power transmission systems and activities supporting nuclear weapons development. Power administration microwave must be capable of carrying hundreds of radio channels per system. The channels are used for high speed relaying, supervisory control, load control, telemetering, data acquisition, land-mobile radio dispatching, operations and maintenance. The nuclear test facilities backbone microwave systems serve sites at greater than 10 miles and are more efficient in this band than in lower or higher bands. This band also allows for a greater range capability for robot control and video requirements. The present system connects all Federal power marketing control facilities in the western half of the U.S. Common equipment exists with the nongovernment sector allowing interconnectivity for critical communications dealing with all aspects of generating and distributing power.



This band is also used for a variety of mobile applications, including airborne telemetry, telecommand, video and data links automated target scoring, and air combat maneuvering instrumentation. Many military aeronautical mobile systems depend on frequencies in this band. Border surveillance through the use of aerostats is supported by narrowband uplink and downlink telemetry transmissions.



The Air Force and Navy also use the band for space command and control. Uplink frequencies between 1761 and 1842 MHZ are heavily used in certain locations in conjunction with a 2200-2290 MHZ downlink. Use of these systems has national security implications. Telemetry, and telecommand and control of the NASA Space Shuttle is conducted on space-to-space links in this band.



This band is also used by the USCG for vessel traffic safety systems, the VHF National Distress System and remote distress and safety communications and control networks.



Radio astronomy observations are made of the 1720.530 MHZ spectral line of the OH molecule. These observations are crucial to understanding the interstellar medium and star formation.



NTIA will reallocate the 1710-1755 MHZ portion of this band for nonfederal use after January 2004, under conditions that will permit some Federal systems to continue to operate.

1850-1990 MOBILE

 



FIXED

The FCC has reserved the 1850-1990 MHZ band for personal communications services on a coprimary basis with fixed services. The band has been divided between frequencies used for metro trading areas, basic trading areas, and nonlicensed use (1910-1930).

 



Private fixed microwave. This band is used to provide fixed point-to-point voice, data, telemetry and control services for private (non-common-carrier) companies. Typical users include electric and gas utilities, police and fire departments, and local governments. Most of these uses are being moved to other frequency bands within the next few years to allow development of PCS.

   
1990-2110 FIXED

 



MOBILE



Space Research and Earth Exploration-Satellite (US90 2025-2110)

Auxiliary broadcasting, Cable television, Domestic public fixed. This band is heavily used by TV broadcasters for one way transmission services such as: portable van and helicopter mounted transmissions of video from remote news events; studio-to-transmitter links; and, intercity relay of video programming. Space Research and

 

Earth Exploration-Satellite (US90 2025-2110)

NASA's global ground network and TDRSS operations from 2025-2110 MHZ are essential to NASA Earth exploration, space operations, and space research activities. This use includes Earth-to-space and space-to-space transmissions. Over 50 U.S. space missions, and, consistent with international agreements, additional foreign missions will be supported by NASA in the next five years. There will be varying degrees of support from launch and orbital transfer to full-time data relay. These telecommunications links are made available to private sector expendable launch vehicle operations. 123 satellites from nine countries are planned for or are operational in the 2025-2110 MHZ and 2200-2290 MHZ bands. These missions comprise 341 planned or existing assignments, not including earth stations.

 



This band is also used for uplinks for the GOES weather satellite, supporting weather prediction efforts.

2110-2200 FIXED

 



MOBILE

The 2110-2130 MHZ portion, paired with 2160-2180 MHZ, is used by common carriers for "light-haul" radio relay routes, for control and repeater links used with land-mobile base stations, and by cellular telephone companies for cell site-to-cell site links. The 2130-2150 MHZ portion, paired with 2180-2200 MHZ, is used by private companies (non-common-carriers) for applications similar to those in the 2110-2130 MHZ band. The 2150-2162 MHZ portion is used for omnidirectional transmission of point to multipoint video signals. This band is congested in many of the urban areas.

 



The FCC has reserved the 2110-2150 and 2160-2200 MHZ band for future emerging technologies on a coprimary basis with fixed services.

Space Research (US252 2110-2120) NASA uses the 2110-2120 MHZ portion of this band for Deep Space Network Earth-to-space command links. These activities support or will support Voyagers 1 and 2, GALILEO, ULYSSES, and other deep space missions.
2200-2290 Space Research, Space Operations, and Earth Exploration-Satellite (US303 2285-2290)   FIXED

 



MOBILE



SPACE RESEARCH (space-to-Earth, space-to-space)



SPACE OPERATIONS (space-to-Earth, space-to-space)



EARTH EXPLORATION-SATELLITE (space-to-Earth, space-to-space)

This band is predominantly used for Federal terrestrial and space telemetry systems. Space applications include the NASA Tracking Data Relay Satellite System (TDRSS) and the Air Force Space Ground Link Subsystem (SGLS). These two systems provide the telemetry, telecommand and control for all Federal satellite systems and some activities with national security implications. Telemetry, tracking and control functions for a new satellite ALEXIS will be performed in this band as part of U.S. treaty verification efforts. Terrestrial telemetry is predominantly air-to-ground links for various operational and experimental systems. Growth averages about 80 new assignments per year.

 



TDRSS operations from 2200-2290 MHZ are essential to NASA Earth exploration, space operations, and space research activities. This use includes space-to-Earth and space-to-space transmissions. Over 50 U.S. space missions, and, consistent with international agreements, additional foreign missions will be supported by NASA in the next five years. There will be varying degrees of support from launch and orbital transfer to full-time data relay. These telecommunications links are made available to private sector expendable launch vehicle operations. 123 satellites from nine countries are planned for or are operational in the 2025-2120 MHZ and 2200-2290 MHZ bands. The band also supports similar space-to-Earth and space-to-space telemetry, telecommand and control for military satellites through the Air Force SGLS system.



Terrestrial telemetry is heavily used in this band for such purposes as nuclear testing, airborne weapons testing, aircraft flight testing, and a wide variety of experimental and research projects. Most of this equipment was moved to this band during the 1970's, at significant expense to the Federal Government, to reaccommodate requirements in lower bands for other uses. Other mobile applications include narrowband uplinks and downlinks in conjunction with radar laden tethered balloons. These balloons are used in law enforcement and drug interdiction missions.



Fixed microwave systems are also in this band for control of land-mobile radio systems to provide voice and data connections between sites where commercial service is not available, and where the 1710-1850 MHZ band is saturated.

2290-2300 SPACE RESEARCH ((space-to-Earth) deep space only)   SPACE RESEARCH ((space-to-Earth) deep space only)

 



FIXED



MOBILE

NASA uses this band for Deep Space Network space-to-earth telemetry. These activities support or will support Voyagers 1 and 2, GALILEO, ULYSSES, Cassini (radio science experiment), and other deep space missions. Radio Astronomy observations are also conducted in this band.
2300-2310 Amateur Amateur weak signal modes ( 2304), other modes throughout the band.    
2310-2360 BROADCASTING SATELLITE

 



Mobile

The FCC has allocated this band for Broadcast-Satellite for high quality radio, and Wireless Communications Systems. Radiolocation

 



Mobile



Fixed

 
2360-2390 MOBILE This band is used for telemetry and telecommand for expendable and reusable launch vehicles. MOBILE

 



RADIOLOCATION



Fixed

This band is used for telemetry and telecommand for expendable and reusable launch vehicles.

 



The Air Force and Navy use this band for aeronautical telemetry. Aeronautical telemetry needs extensive spectrum, and minimal in-band and adjacent-band interference. The 1435-1525 MHZ band is filled and new systems are being moved into this band.



The Air Force uses the band for high-power long-range surveillance radars and air-traffic control radars, while the Army and DOE use it for air/ground ranging system tracking.



NASA uses this band for the Venus Radar Mapper (VRM) synthetic aperture radar and associated telemetry. The National Science Foundation and NASA use planetary radars in coordination with research universities. Observations at the National Astronomy and Ionospheric Center (Arecibo) occupy 20 MHZ centered around 2380 MHZ.

2390-2450 AMATEUR (primary 2390-2400, 2402-2417, secondary 2400-2402, 2417-2450)

 



Amateur Satellite (FN664)

Amateur mixed modes (2390-2400, 2410-2450). Amateur satellite operation (space-to-Earth) occur in accordance with FN664 from 2400-2450 MHZ.

 



The band 2390-2400 is available for unlicensed PCS operations under Part 15 of the FCC's Rules. The band 2400-2450 MHZ band is available for use by a wide-variety of unlicensed devices under Part 15.



This band is also used for microwave ovens (approximate operating frequency 2450) and a variety of industrial processes.

Radiolocation (2417-2450) The Air Force uses the band for high-power long-range surveillance radars and air-traffic control radars. However, because of the operation of tens of millions of microwave ovens and other industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) equipment little use is made of this band and little growth is expected.

 



The Navy uses this band for scoring applications for missiles and projectiles.



There is some packet radio development by the Army going on in this band.

2450-2483.5 FIXED

 



MOBILE



Radiolocation

This band is used for fixed and portable transmission of video by TV broadcasters for remote news events. In addition, the band is used for private company fixed service radio relay transmission of voice and data transmissions by private companies.

 



This band is available for use by a wide-variety of unlicensed devices under Part 15 of the FCC's rules.



This band is also used for microwave ovens (approximate operating frequency 2450) and a variety of industrial processes.

Radiolocation (FN41) The U.S. Customs Service (Treasury) uses this band on a secondary basis for law enforcement related radiolocation.
2483.5-2500 RADIO

 

DETERMINATION SATELLITE (space-to-Earth)



MOBILE SATELLITE (space-to-Earth)

Though this is the downlink band for the Radiodetermination Satellite Service, private company fixed stations and TV broadcaster portable stations that were in operation prior to 1985 may continue to operate on a primary basis. These are multichannel equipment having 10 channels. RADIO

 

DETERMINATION SATELLITE (space-to-Earth)



Radiolocation (FN41)



MOBILE SATELLITE (space-to-Earth)

 
2500-2655 BROADCASTING SATELLITE

 



FIXED



Space Research and Earth Exploration-Satellite (FN720 2640-2655)

Auxiliary broadcasting. The 2500-2686 MHZ portion of this band is used for omnidirectional transmission of point to multipoint (multipoint MDS) that can be contained within 6 MHZ channel bandwidths. Portions of the band are allocated to be used for pay television distribution, transmission of educational lectures by school systems (ITSF), and private video teleconferences. Space Research and Earth Exploration-Satellite (FN720 2640-2655) NASA performs passive space research and earth-exploration satellite observations that allow measurement of soil moisture and of coastal ocean salinity.
2655-2690 BROADCASTING SATELLITE

 



FIXED



Earth Exploration Satellite (passive)



Radio Astronomy



Space Research (Passive)

Auxiliary broadcasting. Private fixed microwave (above 2680 MHZ). There are also fixed multipoint MDS and instructional television operations in this band. Earth Exploration Satellite (passive)

 



Radio Astronomy



Space Research (Passive)

This band is used in the U.S. and other countries for radio astronomy continuum measurements. It is used in addition to the 2690-2700 MHZ band, which is too narrow to conduct some measurements. NASA performs passive space research and earth-exploration satellite observations. These observations allow measurement of soil moisture and of coastal ocean salinity.
2690-2700 RADIO ASTRONOMY

 



EARTH EXPLORATION SATELLITE (Passive)



SPACE RESEARCH (Passive)

  RADIO ASTRONOMY

 



EARTH EXPLORATION SATELLITE (Passive)



SPACE RESEARCH (Passive)

This band is used extensively in the U.S. and other countries for radio astronomy. It is an excellent band for continuum measurement, because the galactic background continuum radiation is low. Observations of galactic and extragalactic radio sources at these frequencies help to define their spectra, which gives information on the physical parameters of the radiating source. The band is also being used by the U.S. Naval Observatory interferometer at Green Bank, WV. This program is used for accurate position determinations by the Navy. The band is also used for solar observations by the Air Force Radio Solar Telescope Network. NASA performs passive space research and earth-exploration satellite observations protected under Footnote US246. These observations allow measurement of soil moisture and of coastal ocean salinity.
2700-2900     AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION

 



METEOROLOGICAL AIDS



Radiolocation

This band is used predominantly for air-surveillance radars. It is a critical safety-of-flight band for airport surveillance radars (ASRs) to provide aircraft position information for air-traffic control in the vicinity of airports. Similar use is for military Ground Control Approach radars (GCAs). The Air Force and Navy use it for high-power long-range surveillance radars and air-traffic control radars. NEXRAD is also being used here when not in conflict with the ASRs. Weather radars are also operated in this band in support of flight safety. NASA uses the band for tracking for range safety purposes (radiolocation), and for atmospheric research (meteorological aids).
2900-3100 MARITIME RADIONAVIGATION

 



Radiolocation

This band is primarily used for maritime radars and radar beacons (racons). Radars of this type are required on cargo and passenger ships by international treaty (SOLAS) for safety purposes. Racons operate in conjunction with maritime radars to provide electronic markers to identify maritime obstructions and navigation points. MARITIME RADIONAVIGATION

 



Radiolocation

Federal agencies use this band heavily for shipborne radionavigation radars, vessel traffic systems, and racons.

 



The military uses this band for high-power 3-D long-range surveillance radars, precision approach radars, and air-traffic control radars.



Also, NEXRAD operates from 2900-3000 MHZ.



NASA performs airborne measurements of rainfall rates over selected ocean areas.

3100-3600 Radiolocation

 



Space Research and Earth Exploration-Satellite (FN713 3100-3300)



Amateur (3300-3500)

  RADIOLOCATION

 



AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION ((Ground-based) 3500-3600)



Space Research and Earth Exploration-Satellite (FN713 3100-3300)

This band is primarily used for military radiolocation, including several multi-billion dollar defense radar systems. Use of this band for these systems is considered critical to national defense. The high-power mobile radars include airborne, land-based, and shipborne applications.
3600-3700 FIXED SATELLITE

 



Radiolocation

INMARSAT and INTELSAT have limited use for fixed satellite service earth stations. Each site must be actively coordinated with the U.S. Government with supporting EMC analysis. AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION (Ground-based)

 



RADIOLOCATION

The principal Federal use of this band is to support a Navy radar used for landing operations on aircraft carriers. This high-power radar is operated on Navy ships and at certain shore locations for training.

 



NTIA will reallocate the 3650-3700 MHZ portion of this band for shared nonfederal use after January 1999.

3700-4200 FIXED

 



FIXED SATELLITE

Domestic public fixed, Satellite communications    
4200-4400 AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION This band is heavily used for radar altimeters on board nongovernment fixed-wing and rotary aircraft. AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION This band is heavily used for radar altimeters on board government fixed-wing and rotary aircraft, as well as spacecraft. Methods for reducing the bandwidth necessary to perform this function are being studied within the ITU-R; however, some altimeter functions may not be able to be provided in a reduced bandwidth. Also, significant capital has been invested in current equipment.
4400-4990 FIXED SATELLITE ((space-to-Earth) 4500-4800)

 



FIXED (4660-4685)



MOBILE (4660-4685)



Radio Astronomy (US203 4825-4835, US257 4950-4990)



Space Research and Earth Exploration-Satellite (FN720 4950-4990)

The band 4660-4685 MHZ is available for the General Wireless Communications Services (GWCS) under Part 26 of the FCC's Rules. FIXED (4400-4660, 4685-4990)

 



MOBILE (4400-4660, 4685-4990)



Radio Astronomy (US203 4825-4835, US257 4950-4990)



Space Research and Earth Exploration-Satellite (FN720 4950-4990)

This band is heavily used by the military services for tactical communications, both line-of-sight and troposcatter.

 



In addition to extensive transportable fixed service use, the DOD operates air-to-ground data links, drone command and control systems, air-defense, and many other systems in this band. The DOD anti-air warfare systems employ high power spread spectrum techniques in a distributed network among ships, aircraft, and land forces.



Additional uses are for emergency incident response for the Nuclear Emergency Search Team, and target scoring and control. Narrowband and wideband uplinks and downlinks operate in conjunction with aerostats used in law enforcement and drug interdiction missions.



The National Science Foundation performs some continuum observations in the 4950-4990 MHZ portion of the band when the 4990-5000 MHZ band does not provide adequate bandwidth.



NTIA will reallocate the 4635-4660 MHZ portion of this band for nonfederal use after January 1997.

4990-5000 RADIO ASTRONOMY

 



Space Research (Passive)

  RADIO ASTRONOMY

 



Space Research (Passive)

This band is used extensively in the U.S. and other countries for radio astronomy. It is an excellent band for continuum measurement, because the galactic background continuum radiation is low. Observations of galactic and extragalactic radio sources at these frequencies help to define their spectra, which gives information on the physical parameters of the radiating source.
5000-5250 AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION

 



AERONAUTICAL MOBILE (R) (FN733)



Fixed Satellite and Inter-Satellite (when in conjunction with Aeronautical Radionavigation or Aeronautical Mobile (R) FN797)

  AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION

 



AERONAUTICAL MOBILE (R) (FN733)



Fixed Satellite and Inter-Satellite (when in conjunction with Aeronautical Radionavigation or Aeronautical Mobile (R) FN797)

The Microwave Landing System is being deployed in the 5000-5150 MHZ portion of this band as one of two internationally recognized systems for precision landing of aircraft.
5250-5350 Radiolocation   RADIOLOCATION (G59 nonmilitary secondary) This band is used for high-power DOD radar systems.

 



NASA is performing experiments with spaceborne radar systems in this band in accordance with FN713.

5350-5460 AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION (FN799 airborne radars and associated radar beacons only)

 



Radiolocation

The 5350-5470 MHZ band is used for airborne weather radars for storm avoidance.

 



Some ground-based weather radars operate in this band to provide weather information for state and local governments, universities, and broadcast stations.

AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION (FN799 airborne radars and associated radar beacons only)

 



RADIOLOCATION (G56 nonmilitary secondary)

The Navy operates its primary surface search radar in this band.

 



The 5350-5470 MHZ band is used for airborne weather radars for storm avoidance.

5460-5470 RADIONAVIGATION (FN799 aeronautical radionavigation limited to airborne radars and associated radar beacons only, US65 maritime radionavigation limited to shipborne radars)

 



Radiolocation

Ship radars operate in this band to provide coastal navigation information.

 



Some ground-based weather radars operate in this band to provide weather information for state and local governments, universities, and broadcast stations.



Airborne weather radars also operate in this band.

RADIONAVIGATION (FN799 aeronautical radionavigation limited to airborne radars and associated radar beacons only, US65 maritime radionavigation limited to shipborne radars)

 



Radiolocation (G56 nonmilitary secondary)

Ship radars operate in this band to provide coastal navigation information. The Navy operates its primary surface search radar in this band.
5470-5600 MARITIME RADIONAVIGATION (US65 limited to shipborne radars)

 



Radiolocation

Ship radars operate in this band to provide coastal navigation information.

 



Some ground-based weather radars operate in this band to provide weather information for state and local governments, universities, and broadcast stations.

MARITIME RADIONAVIGATION (US65 limited to shipborne radars)

 



Radiolocation (G56 nonmilitary secondary)

Ship radars operate in this band to provide coastal navigation information. The Navy operates its primary surface search radar in this band.

 



Above 5500 MHZ, this band is used heavily for test range instrumentation radars.

5600-5650 MARITIME RADIONAVIGATION (US65 limited to shipborne radars)

 



METEOROLOGICAL AIDS



Radiolocation

Ship radars operate in this band to provide coastal navigation information. MARITIME RADIONAVIGATION (US65 limited to shipborne radars)

 



METEOROLOGICAL AIDS



Radiolocation (G56 nonmilitary secondary to military)

Ship radars operate in this band to provide coastal navigation information. The Navy operates its primary surface search radar in this band.

 



Terminal doppler weather radars provide windshear information in support of air-traffic control activities.



This band is used heavily for test range instrumentation radars.

5650-5850 Amateur

 



Amateur Satellite (FN664 (Earth-to-space) 5650-5670, FN808 (space-to-Earth) 5830-5850)

The 5725-5850 MHZ portion of the band is available for a variety of unlicensed uses under Part 15 of the FCC's Rules. RADIOLOCATION (G2 limited to military) The Navy operates its primary surface search radar in this band.

 



This band is used heavily for test range instrumentation radars.

5850-5925 FIXED SATELLITE (Earth-to-space)

 



Amateur

International satellite systems such as INTELSAT use this band for uplinks in the fixed satellite service. RADIOLOCATION (limited to military G2) This band is used heavily for test range instrumentation radars used to track missiles and other airborne targets and is used to safeguard range personnel and surrounding civilian communities. This band is also used to control airborne target systems that help maintain air-defense and combat readiness.
5925-7075 FIXED (5925-6425, 6525-6875)

 



FIXED SATELLITE (Earth-to-space)



MOBILE (6425-6525, 6875-7075)

The 5925-6425 MHZ portion of this band, is used for the uplink of the fixed satellite service corresponding to the downlink in the 3700-4200 MHZ band.

 



The common carrier Point-to-point Microwave Service used by local exchange and long distance telephone companies shares the 5925-6425 MHZ frequency range. Fiber-optics are replacing many of these telephone links. However, this is one of the bands to which fixed microwave incumbents are migrating from the spectrum reallocated for Personal Communications services and other emerging technologies. These fixed users are also migrating to the 6525-6875 MHZ band.



The 5925-6425 MHZ portion of this band is also used by cellular carriers for backbone networks.



The main terrestrial use of the 6425-6525 MHZ range is for broadcast auxiliary television remote pickup. The 6875-7025 MHZ band is used for broadcast auxiliary services including electronic newsgathering, intercity relay, and studio transmitter links.

   
7075-7125 FIXED

 



MOBILE

This band is used for broadcast auxiliary services including electronic newsgathering, intercity relay, and studio transmitter links.    
7125-7250 SPACE RESEARCH ((Earth-to-space), US252 deep space only 7145-7190)   FIXED

 



SPACE RESEARCH ((Earth-to-space) 7190-7250) and (US252 deep space only 7145-7190)

This band is used for fixed microwave links associated with control of power distribution and dam flood gates, remoting of weather data, remoting of vessel traffic information, remoting of air-traffic control radar data, and military test range communications.

 



NASA uses this band for Deep Space Network earth-to-space telecommand links. These activities support or will support GALILEO, Mars Global Surveyor, Mars Pathfinder, Cassini Near Earth Asteroid Rendezvous (NEAR), and other deep space missions.

7250-7750     FIXED (primary 7300-7750, secondary 7250-7300)

 



FIXED SATELLITE ((space-to Earth) G117 military only)



METEOROLOGICAL SATELLITE ((space-to-Earth) 7450-7550)



MOBILE SATELLITE ((space-to-Earth) primary 7250-7300, secondary 7300-7750, G117 military only)

This band is used for fixed microwave links associated with control of power distribution and dam flood gates, remoting of weather data, remoting of vessel traffic information, remoting of air-traffic control radar data, and military test range communications.

 



The band is used for Defense Satellite Communication Systems (DSCS), and NATO SATCOM downlinks to provide secure voice and data communications to globally deployed military units, and for FLTSATCOM telemetry.

7750-7900     FIXED This band is used for fixed microwave links associated with control of power distribution and dam flood gates, remoting of weather data, remoting of vessel traffic information, remoting of air-traffic control radar data, and military test range communications.
7900-8025     FIXED SATELLITE ((Earth-to-space) G117 military only)

 



MOBILE SATELLITE ((Earth-to-space) G117 military only)



Fixed

This band is used for fixed microwave links on a secondary basis.

 



The band is also used for Defense Satellite Communication Systems (DSCS) uplinks that provide secure voice and data communications to globally deployed military units including mobile earth terminals, and for FLTSATCOM uplinks for fleet broadcasts.

8025-8400 EARTH EXPLORATION SATELLITE (Space-to-Earth US258) This band is used for land remote-sensing operations within the Earth exploration-satellite service (space-to-Earth). EARTH EXPLORATION SATELLITE (space-to-Earth)

 



FIXED



FIXED SATELLITE ((Earth-to-space) G117 military only)



METEOROLOGICAL SATELLITE ((Earth-to-space) 8175-8215)



Mobile Satellite ((Earth-to-space) no airborne transmissions, G117 military only)

This band is used for fixed microwave links associated with control of power distribution and dam flood gates, remoting of weather data, remoting of vessel traffic information, remoting of air-traffic control radar data, and military test range communications.

 



The band is used for Defense Satellite Communication Systems (DSCS) uplinks that provide secure voice and data communications to globally deployed military units.



This band is used for land remote-sensing operations within the Earth exploration-satellite service (space-to-Earth).

8400-8500 SPACE RESEARCH ((space-to-Earth) 8450-8500)   FIXED

 



SPACE RESEARCH (space-to-Earth, deep space only, 8400-8450)



SPACE RESEARCH (space-to-Earth, 8450-8500)

NASA uses this band for Deep Space Network space-to-earth telemetry. These activities support or will support GALILEO, Mars Global Surveyor, Mars Pathfinder, Cassini (radio science experiment), Near Earth Asteroid Rendezvous (NEAR), and other deep space missions.
8500-9000 Radiolocation The 8750-8850 MHZ band is used for airborne weather radars for storm avoidance. RADIOLOCATION (G59 nonmilitary secondary to military) The 8750-8850 MHZ band is used for airborne weather radars for storm avoidance.

 



There is also increasing use for ground-based missile defense.



NASA operates its Goldstone Solar System Radar at 8530 MHZ.

9000-9200 AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION (FN717 ground-based radars and associated transponders only)

 



Radiolocation

  AERONAUTICAL RADIONAVIGATION (FN717 ground-based radars and associated transponders only)

 



Radiolocation (G19 military only)

This band is used extensively for military precision approach radars.

 



There is also increasing use for ground-based missile defense systems.

9200-9300 MARITIME RADIONAVIGATION (FN823 limits use of 9200-9225 to shore-based radars)

 



Radiolocation

This band is used by maritime radars for general surface use, navigation, and collision avoidance. MARITIME RADIONAVIGATION (FN823 limits use of 9200-9225 to shore-based radars)

 



Radiolocation (G59 nonmilitary secondary to military)

There is increasing use for ground-based missile defense systems in this band.
9300-9500 RADIONAVIGATION (US66 aeronautical radionavigation - airborne radars and associated airborne beacons only, ground-based permitted 9300-9320)

 



Meteorological Aids (US67 ground-based radars only)



Radiolocation

This band is used by maritime radars for general surface use, navigation, and collision avoidance.. These radars employ wide bandwidths for high resolution. Also, radar transponder beacons (RACONs) identify maritime hazards search, and search and rescue transponders (SARTs) identify people in distress at sea.

 



This band is used by civil aircraft for airborne weather radars for storm avoidance.

RADIONAVIGATION (US66 aeronautical radionavigation - airborne radars and associated airborne beacons only, ground-based permitted 9300-9320)

 



Meteorological Aids (US67 ground-based radars only)



Radiolocation

Ship radars operate in this band to provide coastal navigation information. These radars employ wide bandwidths for high resolution. The Coast Guard operates vessel traffic system radars for controlling ship movement around harbors and coastal areas with high ship traffic. Also, radar transponder beacons (RACONs) identify maritime hazards, and search and rescue transponders (SARTs) identify people in distress at sea.

 



This band is used for airborne weather radars for storm avoidance.



There is also increasing use for ground-based missile defense systems.

9500-10000 Radiolocation

 



Meteorological Satellite (FN828 9975-10025 for weather radars)

This band is used for weather radars operated by users such as state an local governments, broadcasters, university researchers, and commercial weather forecasters. RADIOLOCATION

 



Meteorological Satellite (FN828 9975-10025 for weather radars)

This band is used extensively for military airborne radars. There is also increasing use for missile defense systems.