Radio Astronomy Sites Said to Make Frequent Use of Upper C-Band Spectrum
Radio astronomical uses of the upper C-band spectrum are “diverse,” the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) said as it provided data to the FCC related to an NPRM that commissioners approved in November (see 2511240048). The NPRM asks about coordination between radio astronomy sites and wireless operations in the band. Initial comments are due next week in docket 25-59.
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NRAO noted that it operates facilities that use upper C-band spectrum, including the Karl Jansky Very Large Array in New Mexico, the Robert C. Byrd Green Bank Telescope in West Virginia and 10 very long baseline array stations “stretching across the US from St. Croix to Hawaii.” NRAO records show that observations in the upper C-band occur 35% of the time at the very large array and 15% of the time at the 10 very long baseline sites, the filing said.
Summit Ridge Group, which ran the 3.45 GHz relocation reimbursement clearinghouse, offered the FCC advice on how to manage a clearinghouse for upper C-band spectrum. “Encourage clear and straightforward processes” and offer “performance-based bonuses tied to early completion.” The firm added that the Clearinghouse Search Committee should be given “ongoing supervisory authority with supermajority voting to ensure accountability.”