An informal working group (IWG) on satellite services took the fi...

to look at how the results of studies by the ITU Radiocommunication Sector (ITU-R) affect technical sharing and regulatory provisions for high altitude platform stations (HAPS) that operate in the 47.2-47.5 GHz and 47.9-48.2 GHz bands (V- band). A 2nd resolution (145) addressing HAPS in the 27.5- 28.35 GHz and 31-31.3 GHz bands wasn’t addressed in the view. After WRC-2000, an ITU-R recommendation had been adopted establishing that co-frequency operations between fixed service (FS) HAPS and fixed satellite service (FSS) networks and systems are feasible. According to additional background information in the preliminary view, the ITU-R was asked at WRC-03 to study a number of sharing issues, including power limitations for sharing with space stations and ground receivers; HAPS deployment in the FS near country borders; and sharing criteria for FS HAPS with radio astronomy and FSS systems. The IWG’s preliminary view confirms that the U.S. plans to participate in the studies on “power limitations to be applied to HAPS ground stations to protect space station receivers.” Additionally, the view said the U.S. had an affirmative opinion on co-frequency sharing between FS HAPS and FSS in the identified bands: “With that, there no longer is any need for resolution 122, the restrictions it perpetuates on FSS notices in Region 1 and 3, or the limitless privileges it extends to HAPS notices. Resolution 122 should be suppressed.” A 2nd draft was considered but not approved Thurs. Agenda item 1.18 asks administrations to “review [power flux density] limits in band 17.7-19.7 GHz for satellite systems using highly inclined orbits, in accordance with resolution 141 (WRC-03).” The IWG plans 2 additional meetings, May 12 and 27, to complete all preliminary views before a June 8 meeting of the WRC-07 Advisory Committee in June.