Electro-Magnetic Spectrum Environment Changes to Passive Remote Sensing

Passive microwave remote sensing involves the measurement of naturally occurring electromagnetic radiation. The emitted energy is measured by microwave radiometers in specific frequency bands, which are chosen based on the geophysical parameter of the Earth’s atmosphere, land or ocean that one would like to estimate. Naturally occurring emissions are generally very weak compared to transmissions from other radio services and it is essential that these anthropogenic emissions are identified and prevented from adversely contaminating collected Earth observation data.

Many technological advances have been identified as posing a risk to microwave passive sensing data when accessing and using the radio frequency (RF) spectrum. Contamination of data from measurements made by conventional passive remote sensors is likely to occur, but it is uncertain precisely how and to what extent.

Non-natural, anthropogenic RF contamination of passive remote sensing bands is estimated to be increasing in intensity and extent; however, it is difficult to be observed clearly. Often the corrupted measurement is the only one available, therefore establishing “truth” data for comparison with the contaminated data is challenging and costly. More analysis and measurements are needed for spectrum managers to assist in their efforts to enforce radio-regulations, for space agencies to protect the remote sensing instruments that will provide more benefit to society, and for researchers to understand the errors associated with their remote passive band sensor measurements.

It is apparent that the electro-magnetic spectrum environment is becoming more dynamic with global implementations of new and more demanding technical systems. Changes are being seen on spectrum policies, regulations, engineering measurements, and in system operations. Remote sensing systems are increasingly being required to contend with this changing, more dynamic, electromagnetic spectrum environment while maintaining the continuity necessary for ongoing critical climate, meteorological, and scientific measurements.

The IEEE GRSS Frequency Allocations in Remote Sensing (FARS) Technical Committee is focused on this developing issue and is working towards the development of radio frequency interference detection and mitigation technology as well as providing spectrum managers and regulators with technical input and perspective from remote sensing scientists and engineers. This presentation from the FARS Technical Committee will continue the discussion and exchange of information between researchers with the common scope of minimizing harmful interference between remote sensing systems and other systems dependent on the electro-magnetic spectrum and provide information on spectrum management processes and issues.