NSF's ongoing technical coordination with satellite constellation operators

The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) has announced a new coordination agreement with AST SpaceMobile to address the impact of satellite constellations on ground-based astronomy, particularly focusing on radio astronomy facilities like the NSF National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NSF NRAO) and the NSF Green Bank Observatory (NSF GBO).

The agreement builds on the longstanding partnership between the NSF GBO and AT&T, which developed a low-power antenna system at the nearby Snowshoe Mountain Ski Resort. This system provides cell coverage while minimizing interference with the observatory’s scientific operations. The NSF NRAO is directly involved in the new agreement, collaborating with AST SpaceMobile to conduct field tests. These tests aim to fully characterize the effects of direct-to-cell satellite downlinks and gateways on radio astronomy receivers and to determine what mitigation measures are necessary to prevent harmful interference or equipment damage.

NSF’s ongoing technical coordination with satellite constellation operators

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The National Radio Astronomy Observatory is a facility of the U.S. National Science Foundation operated under cooperative agreement by Associated Universities, Inc.
	Founded in 1956, the NRAO provides state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. NRAO telescopes are open to all astronomers regardless of institutional or national affiliation. Observing time on NRAO telescopes is available on a competitive basis to qualified scientists after evaluation of research proposals on the basis of scientific merit, the capability of the instruments to do the work, and the availability of the telescope during the requested time. NRAO also provides both formal and informal programs in education and public outreach for teachers, students, the general public, and the media.
	The U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 "to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense..."
	AUI collaborates with the scientific community and research sponsors to plan, build, and operate cutting-edge facilities. We cultivate excellence, deliver value, enhance education, and engage the public.