Space Regulatory Glossary Orbital Mechanics

orbital slot

noun

1. A designated longitude position along the geostationary arc where a satellite is authorized to operate. Orbital slots are a finite resource — approximately 1,800 nominal positions are allocated, with a standard minimum separation of 2 degrees of longitude between satellites.
2. Coordinated internationally through the ITU and recorded in the Master International Frequency Register (MIFR). Slot assignments carry significant commercial value, and disputes over orbital positions are a recurring feature of ITU proceedings.

Read: Multi-Agency Coordination (FCC, FAA, NOAA, ITU)

Related terms

GEO Geostationary orbit. A circular equatorial orbit at approximately 35,786 km altitude where a satellite's orbital period… ITU The International Telecommunication Union. A specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for coordinating… spectrum coordination The process by which satellite operators negotiate with existing spectrum users to avoid harmful radio frequency…

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