Space Regulatory Glossary Spectrum

L-band

/ɛl bænd/ noun

1. A radio frequency band spanning approximately 1 to 2 GHz, used for mobile satellite services, GPS navigation signals, and aeronautical and maritime communications.
2. L-band's lower frequency provides excellent signal penetration through foliage and weather but offers limited bandwidth compared to higher bands. Used by Inmarsat, Iridium, and global navigation satellite systems.

Related terms

S-band A radio frequency band spanning approximately 2 to 4 GHz, used for weather radar, telemetry and command links to… C-band A radio frequency band spanning approximately 4 to 8 GHz, historically the workhorse of satellite communications due to… spectrum coordination The process by which satellite operators negotiate with existing spectrum users to avoid harmful radio frequency…

Mentioned in The Downlink

• Multi-Agency Coordination: FCC, FAA, NOAA, and ITU

  A single satellite mission can require four federal agencies that don't talk to each other. Case studies and reform efforts in multi-agency coordination.

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