RFI Characteristics of a Data Relay Satellite System

Abstract

The use of geosynchronous satellites for relay of data from near earth orbiting satellites is being considered by NASA. Since these relay satellites will have directional antennas beamed toward the earth at all times any earth based emitter is a potential source of radio frequency interference (RFI). An investigation has been made in an effort to determine the magnitude of this interference. The information presented here is based upon known frequency assignments and known equipment capabilities. All data and analysis presented are for the continental U. S. only and in some respects depicts a bleak picture.