ITU Regulatory processes

These regulatory processes are applicable for LEO/MEO and GEO satellites and consist of these steps

  1. Analysis and selection of the suitable orbital position
  2. Preparation and application for a new satellite or Satellite Network
  3. Coordination and notification
  4. Technical support during coordination meeting
  5. Preparation of contracts and agreements


1. Analysis and selection of the suitable orbital position

  • Access to the ITU databases
  • Detailed analysis of the particular satellite network, networks of one operator or entire administration (country).
  • Assessment of real state of the satellite network and its parameters.
  • Limited number of usable orbital positions
  • Limitation of troubles during coordination
  • Planned spectrum utilization (VHF,UHF,L, S, C, X, Ku, Ka-band)
  • Ensuring minimal interference among the new and existing systems
  • Higher signal quality, more possibilities of utilization of the radio frequencies
  • Cost-effective coordination process

2. Preparation and application for a new Satellite or Satellite Network

  • Planned satellite or satellite network shall be registered at the ITU
  • Application contains expected operation parameters
  • Applications in accordance with the Radio Regulations
  • Filling an application for API/A (Advanced Publication) or CR/C (Coordination Request)

3. Coordination and notification of the satellite or Satellite network

  • Negotiation with the other satellite operators
  • Evaluation of applicable parameters(service area, radio spectrum, polarization and transmission power)
  • Notification of the successfully negotiated parameters to the ITUs MIFR.

4. Technical support during coordination meetings

  • Key event when preparing the satellite operators
  • Negotiation with other satellite operators
  • Negotiation of conditions for operation of satellites without mutual interference
  • Preparation of data and documents for coordination meeting

5. Preparation of contracts and agreements  

  • Before satellite launch it is necessary to ensure that the new satellite will not interfere with existing systems
  • Preparation of the General Agreement with other satellite operators or agreement on the level of administrations (countries)