Extending the Usable Ka-Band Spectrum for FSS Satellite Systems by using a FS Database

Broadband access by satellite in Ka-band will become constrained by spectrum availability. In this context, the European Union (EU) FP7 project CoRaSat is examining the possible spectrum extension opportunities that could be exploited by a database approach in Ka-band via the use of cognitive mechanisms. The database approach utilizing spectrum scenarios between Fixed Satellite Services (FSS), Fixed Services (FS) and Broadcast Satellite Service (BSS) feeder links are considered. Database statistics for several EU countries are also provided for database analysis. Interference in the downlink scenarios are evaluated by the database approach using real databases and propagation models. The importance of using correct terrain profiles and accurate propagation models are shown. For the case of BSS interference to the FSS downlink (17.3-17.7GHz) it is demonstrated that in the UK an area of less than 2% is adversely affected. FS interference into the FSS downlink 17.7- 19.7GHz is shown for the UK to only affect a small percentage of the band at any location. Some initial preliminary findings when considering earth stations on moving platforms are also presented. It is concluded that by using a database approach to allocate frequencies it is possible to use most of the band across different locations for satellites services in the shared Ka-band