Radio Astronomy and Spectrum Management



Radio Astronomy, by its very nature, detects extremely faint cosmic radio signals and hence is very susceptible to Radio Frequency Interference (RFI). So, it is very important that the RFI environment near radio astronomy telescopes is carefully controlled.

The radio spectrum is regulated internationally by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), a specialised United Nations agency, which allocates spectrum to the many radio telecommunications services. This spectrum is then managed at the national level by National Communications Administrations, such as the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACA).

The Australia Telescope National Facility (ATNF) considers that radio spectrum protection is critical to its operations. Historically, the ATNF and its predecessors in CSIRO have been strongly involved in both national and international radio spectrum management activities such as the ITU and the ACA. Currently, the ATNF is involved in many aspects of spectrum management, frequency protection and RFI mitigation.

ATNF Spectrum Management Coordination and Contacts

The principal contact at ATNF for any spectrum related issues is the ATNF Spectrum Management Coordinator. The coordinator also acts as the main contact and liaison on radio spectrum issues for all radio astronomy facilities in Australia.

Contact details:

Tasso Tzioumis
ATNF Spectrum Management Coordinator


Email: Tasso.Tzioumis@csiro.au
Phone:  02 9372 4350
Fax:       02 9372 4310
Mobile: 0409 447 902
Postal address: ATNF, CSIRO, P.O. Box 76, Epping, NSW 1710, Australia
Location: CSIRO Radiophysics Laboratory, Pembroke and Vimiera Rds, Marsfield, NSW, 2122, Australia



Spectrum management activities at ATNF

RFI Mitigation

A Radio Quiet Zone (RQZ) for the SKA

Radio Astronomy Facilities in Australia

Spectrum Management related links


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