Ofcom and JOINER to Evaluate Satellite Spectrum Sharing Rules

UK communications regulator Ofcom has agreed to collaborate with the JOINER research platform on a technical evaluation of spectrum coexistence between low Earth orbit (LEO) and geostationary (GEO) satellite systems, providing independent evidence to inform future regulatory decisions.

The work will examine whether existing international spectrum-sharing rules remain appropriate as LEO satellite constellations expand. Many of these systems operate in frequency bands also used by established GEO satellites, which support broadcasting, telecommunications and critical communications. The current International Telecommunication Union framework was developed more than two decades ago, before the rapid growth of large LEO constellations.

Ofcom and JOINER will jointly develop software, configure test hardware and conduct modelling, emulation and measurement activities to assess how different satellite systems interact. The programme will use JOINER's National Spectrum Facility and Non-Terrestrial Network Facility to investigate potential interference and evaluate approaches that could improve spectrum efficiency while maintaining protection for existing services.

JOINER provides a distributed UK research infrastructure combining spectrum experimentation, NTN emulation, cloud and edge computing, and secure networking. Its facilities are intended to support independent testing at a scale beyond conventional laboratory environments, reducing reliance on technical evidence supplied exclusively by satellite operators and other spectrum users.