Evaluating the radio frequency interference potential of 5G mobile networks on space links at millimeter waves

At the next World Radiocommunication Conference 2019 of the International Telecommunication Union, Agenda Item 1.13 will address the identification and the possible additional allocation of radio-frequency spectrum to serve the future development of the International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT) for 2020 and beyond, mainly focused on systems supporting the fifth generation of cellular mobile communications. The frequency range of interest goes from 24.25 to 86 GHz, which fully covers all millimeter bands used or planned by the European Space Agency’s space missions for high data rate transmissions. This paper shows the potential impact of IMT deployments in terms of received radio frequency interference by ESA’s telecommunication links in frequency bands allocated to the Earth Exploration-Satellite Service and to the Space Research Service. Particular focus is given to the ESA’s tracking network and to the earth stations located in New Norcia (Australia), Cebreros (Spain), Malargüe Sur (Argentina) and Kiruna (Sweden). Results are shown in terms of required separation distances, i.e., the minimum distance between the earth station and the IMT station ensuring that the protection criteria for the earth station are met by the emissions of an IMT base station or user equipment. Results point out the need of having separation distances up to 100 km depending on the station and frequency band under consideration.