Satellite Spectrum

October 22, 2024

GS Paper III Science and Technology

Recently, the Telecom minister announced that satcom spectrum will be allocated administratively but will come at a cost.

As per the announcement, the cost of spectrum and the formula of allocation will be decided by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)
Range of radio frequencies used by satellites to communicate with ground stations, other satellites, and various devices on Earth

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About Satellite Spectrum

Satellite spectrum refers to the range of radio frequencies allocated for communication between satellites and Earth-based systems.
These frequencies are part of the electromagnetic spectrum allocated for different satellite services, such as communication, broadcasting, navigation, and Earth observation.
Regulation: By international bodies like the International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
- ITU coordinates and allocates frequencies to prevent interference between different satellite systems and other forms of communication

Satellite Spectrum

Satellite Frequency Bands

L-band (1-2 GHz): Used for GPS, mobile satellite services, and some communications.
S-band (2-4 GHz): Used for weather satellites, space research, and some mobile communications.
C-band (4-8 GHz): Commonly used for satellite TV broadcasting, especially in regions with heavy rain.
X-band (8-12 GHz): Primarily used for military communications and radar systems.
Ku-band (12-18 GHz): Used for satellite TV, internet, and VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) services.
Ka-band (26-40 GHz): Used for high-speed data communication and newer satellite internet service

About Radio Spectrum

Satellite Spectrum

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Auction Vs Administrative allocation

Criteria	Auctions	Administrative Allocation
Process	Involves competitive bidding where licenses are sold to the highest bidder.	Government directly assigns spectrum without bidding.
Revenue Generation	Generates significant revenue for the government.	Minimal revenue, often only covering administrative costs.
Transparency	High transparency, as the allocation is based on open, competitive bidding.	Low transparency, as the process is often less public and subject to discretion.
Market-driven	Market-driven approach, prices set by demand and supply in the auction.	Not market-driven; spectrum is allocated based on governmental priorities or needs.
Efficiency	Encourages efficient use of spectrum by awarding it to those who value it most.	May lead to less efficient use of spectrum, as it’s not always allocated to the highest-value users.
Suitability	Best suited for commercial services like telecommunications, broadcasting, etc.	Often used for government services, military, or specialized sectors.
Flexibility	Can lead to higher competition and innovation as bidders compete for spectrum.	Can be more rigid, with allocations often set by policy or specific needs.
Cost to Licensee	High costs, as licenses are awarded to the highest bidder.	Lower costs, as licenses are typically assigned for nominal or administrative fees.
Allocation Speed	Slower process, as auctions involve planning and execution.	Faster process, as it’s administratively managed by the government.

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