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SKA-Mid telescope obtains international layer of protection
from Contact 10
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BY SARAO
The UN agency responsible for information and communication technology matters has placed the future SKA-Mid telescope in South Africa on its Master International Frequency Register (MIFR).
This important step by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) adds another layer of protection from radio interference for SKA-Mid. The establishment of radio-quiet zones – such as the one around the future SKA-Mid telescope –is sufficient to ensure protection from interference from transmitters operating within national borders. However, for protection from international radio transmissions such as planes, satellites, and High Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS) that may cross borders, MIFR recognition is needed.
Registering a telescope the size of SKA-Mid required significant work, with the telescope’s core registered separately from each individual dish making up the spiral arms. The MIFR registration also recognises SKA-Mid’s entire frequency range, including the bands not traditionally reserved for radio astronomy but that are still needed for breakthrough science.
The process was conducted by the spectrum management team of the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO), through the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa acting on behalf of the South African government. The timing of the recognition could not be better considering the rapid developments of satellite systems in low Earth orbit and the increasing global interest in the use of HAPS.
“It’s extremely important to be included on this international register, and it’s one part of the SKA Observatory’s overall mitigation strategy,” says SKAO Spectrum Manager Federico Di Vruno. “While it doesn’t prevent satellites being pointed towards the telescope, which is one of the mitigation measures we’re asking industry to implement, it’s a step in the right direction.
“SKA-Mid’s location, layout, and frequency range will now be well known to international operators. It means that when a proposal is made to modify radio regulations, SKA-Mid’s presence must be considered, even if the telescope is currently under construction. “Our South African colleagues’ foresight in doing this work now means SKA-Mid is fully recognised by the ITU and will receive all available protections at the international level.”
Composite image of the SKA-Mid telescope in South Africa. From left: artist’s impression of the future SKA dishes blend into the existing precursor MeerKAT telescope dishes.
Credit: SKAO
