Spectrum Policy

The Spectrum Policy division is responsible for NRAO contributions to national and international discussions about the use of radio spectrum. National policy is set by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (for non-commercial spectrum use) and the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) for commercial spectrum use. There are many international organizations that contribute to spectrum policy. The International Telecommunications Union (ITU) is the international body that sets policy that crosses national boundaries.

National

 Spectrum Management is responsible for shaping the NSF NRAO's responses to FCC requests for comment and decisions. Follow this link for more details about National Spectrum Policy work, and recent NRAO filings.

International

 Spectrum Management is responsible for the NSF NRAO’s participation in international meetings like the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) and the World Radiotelecommunication Congress (WRC). Follow this link for more details about International Spectrum Policy work and participation.

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The NSF National Radio Astronomy Observatory and NSF Green Bank Observatory are facilities of the U.S. National Science Foundation operated under cooperative agreement by Associated Universities, Inc.

Founded in 1956, the NSF NRAO provides state-of-the-art radio telescope facilities for use by the international scientific community. NSF NRAO telescopes are open to all astronomers regardless of institutional or national affiliation. Observing time on NSF NRAO telescopes is available on a competitive basis to qualified scientists after evaluation of research proposals on the basis of scientific merit, the capability of the instruments to do the work, and the availability of the telescope during the requested time. NSF NRAO also provides both formal and informal programs in education and public outreach for teachers, students, the general public, and the media.

The U.S. National Science Foundation (U.S. NSF) is an independent federal agency created by Congress in 1950 "to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; to secure the national defense..."

AUI collaborates with the scientific community and research sponsors to plan, build, and operate cutting-edge facilities. We cultivate excellence, deliver value, enhance education, and engage the public.