Overview: Techniques for the Analysis of Spectral and Orbital Congestion in Space Systems

Future growth in commercial and military space systems is constrained by technical problems associated with the frequency spectrum, by orbital congestion, and by costs stemming from proliferated terminals. The authors outline an Air Force sponsored research project to design and develop a capability for predicting and analyzing the spectrum/orbital geometry requirements of current/projected U.S. and international space-related systems. The two essential components of the project are a comprehensive space environment data base and a computer analysis program. In combination, they will provide a resource for evaluating engineering and architectural designs, identifying and analyzing the impact of intentional and unintentional electromagnetic interference, and predicting probable saturation conditions in spectrum usage and satellite/orbital positions. The projected capabilities could provide an essential national resource for management decisionmaking and architectural planning on space-related programs. The U.S. Air Force Space Division is establishing a continuing project to utilize these capabilities.