Access to interference-free radio spectrum for wireless communications is the lifeline of the digital economy. It is a prerequisite for connectivity infrastructure investments, and reliable delivery of critical services to citizens. It impacts many areas of our daily lives, such as access to connectivity, aerial transport, maritime freight, connected and autonomous cars, energy production, search and rescue operations.
Given the finite nature of spectrum, decisions on its access and use today have decades-long, wide-ranging impacts on economies, governments and citizens. Never before has radio spectrum been under such pressure from increasing demand.
The shift from wireline to wireless communications and the introduction of multiple LEO constellations today is a game-changer. From a limited number of fixed tower cells previously, coverage is now being increased by adding a multitude of small mobile antennas on ground, in the air and in space. The coexistence and integration of space and non-space communication systems results, not only in increased occupancy of the radio spectrum but also, in increasing odds of interference.
The good news is that spectrum optimisation capabilities are also evolving rapidly. Such techniques, as well as better knowledge of the actual usage of spectrum, will make room for a fairer access and more sustainable use.
Enhanced knowledge of spectrum use can support the evolution of the regulatory environment in a way that enables, encourages and rewards sustainable use, in the best interest of all users.
In this context, this ESA workshop will create a forum for regulators, users, industry and decision-makers to discuss the rationale and use cases for space-based technologies to help, complementing ground systems, in the civil domain.
The findings of this workshop will underpin CleanWaves: an ESA initiative which aims to mature industry capabilities for optimising spectrum usage and preserving it from harmful interference.
PROGRAMME & REGISTRATION
Programme Outline and Registration will be available soon
This workshop is part of a two-day event organised by ESA’s Connectivity and Secure Communications directorate.