Radio astronomers will have eight hours of uninterrupted signals thanks to a pact signed Thursday between the National Astronomy and Ionosphere Center and communications satellite maker Motorola.
The agreement gives astronomers using Puerto Rico’s Arecibo Radio Telescope, operated by the NAIC, daily right-of-way privileges to part of the Ka-band radio spectrum at 1612 MHz between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. EDT. During these hours, Motorola won't transmit signals from its Iridium system that interfere in this part of the spectrum. In addition, radio astronomers are given right of way in cases where special scientific opportunities arise.
The pact marks a truce in the ongoing battle between radio astronomers and communications satellite makers. Radio astronomers assert that the growing number of communications satellite systems are clogging up the airwaves and muddying their observations. Radio telescopes trace the faint signals emitted in space by interstellar molecules. Noise generated by these molecules gives radio astronomers clues to locating asteroids, stars, and solar systems, helping them piece together the history of how galaxies such as our own have evolved.
Several Big Low-Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite systems, including Motorola’s Iridium network, use or are slotted to use the Ka-band. Iridium, which will have 66 satellites, is scheduled to begin operation this fall.
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China Space Flight: Though details are few, China has its eyes on the moon. The country wants to run manned space flights by the turn of the century, and would like to land an explorer on the moon, according to an Associated Press report. The news comes from the state-run Xinhua News Agency, quoting Ma Xingrui, vice president of the Chinese Academy of Space Technology. "China is striving to make breakthroughs in manned space flight technology at the end of this century or the beginning of the next century," Xingrui said during an international meeting of space scientists in Beijing. China "will launch a small lunar explorer when possible." Meanwhile, Loral Space & Communications signed an agreement with China on Monday to have China provide launching services for its satellites. The country will conduct five launches for Loral between now and 2002, using its "Long March 3B" rocket. Reuters contributed to this report
