A Strategy for Active Remote Sensing Amid Increased Demand for Radio Spectrum

Active remote sensing is the principal tool used to study and to predict short- and long-term changes in the environment of Earth - the atmosphere, the oceans and the land surfaces - as well as the near space environment of Earth. All of these measurements are essential to understanding terrestrial weather, climate change, space weather hazards, and threats from asteroids. Active remote sensing measurements are of inestimable benefit to society, as we pursue the development of a technological civilization that is economically viable, and seek to maintain the quality of our life. A Strategy for Active Remote Sensing Amid Increased Demand for Spectrum describes the threats, both current and future, to the effective use of the electromagnetic spectrum required for active remote sensing. This report offers specific recommendations for protecting and making effective use of the spectrum required for active remote sensing. Table of ContentsFront MatterSummary1 Introduction2 Active Earth Remote Sensing for Atmospheric Applications3 Active Earth Remote Sensing for Ocean Applications4 Active Earth Remote Sensing for Land Surface Applications5 Active Earth Remote Sensing for Space Physics6 Planetary Radar Astronomy7 Spectrum Access: Allocation Policies and the Assignment Process8 Radio-Frequency Interference Issues for Active Sensing Instruments9 Technology and the Opportunities for Interference MitigationAppendixesAppendix A: Statement of TaskAppendix B: Committee Meeting and Workshop AgendasAppendix C: Summary of the Radio-Frequency Interference WorkshopAppendix D: Acronyms