Spectrum management

Present day life without the use of radio frequencies is totally unimaginable. The mode of usage of the different frequency bands is diverse and ever-changing with constant development of newer technology. In the midst of all this, there is a minority group of spectrum users who are labeled "passive". Radio astronomy and remote sensing groups come under this title, having no control over the signal they try to receive, they are often most vulnerable to interference from man-made radio waves. However, through constant need to develop new techniques to detect very weak signals, the research done by these passive users of spectrum often benefits the commercial users. It is therefore of utmost importance that both the active and the passive users of radio spectrum may survive and grow together in a manner of peaceful coexistence. This is the goal of spectrum management. As radio waves "do not know" of any national boundaries, such management issues have to be agreed upon globally. The mechanisms that have been set up for such purposes with global and national counterparts is explained. How, as a minority, the interests of radio astronomy may be best served now and in future is also discussed.