NTIA seeks feedback on future airwaves for innovative technologies; SpectrumX to host a listening session at the University of Notre Dame

WASHINGTON – The Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) on Wednesday began seeking comment on identifying airwaves for more intensive use and innovative new uses by both the private sector and federal agencies.

NTIA’s National Spectrum Strategy Request for Comment seeks input on creating a spectrum pipeline for the next decade of frequencies that could be studied for new or additional uses. The agency’s goal is to identify at least 1,500 megahertz of spectrum to study for potential repurposing – perhaps the most ambitious study goal for NTIA to date – to meet future requirements for non-federal and federal users.

SpectrumX leadership participate in URSI National Radio Science Meeting

In early January, radio science researchers from across the United States and beyond came together for the National Radio Science Meeting (NRSM) at the University of Colorado Boulder. The meeting was attended by six SpectrumX members, who hosted workshops and participated in multiple panel discussions. The NRSM is sponsored by the U.S. National Committee for the International Union of Radio Science.

SpectrumX announces formal liaison partnership with the NTIA Institute for Telecommunication Sciences

SpectrumX and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) Institute for Telecommunication Services (ITS) have formally agreed to work together on the mutually beneficial goals of advancing policy-relevant research and workforce development. The NTIA ITS conducts research in spectrum sciences to advance and satisfy federal policy requirements. Through the collaboration, SpectrumX’s interdisciplinary research, education, and workforce development activities will complement NTIA ITS efforts and pilot new ways that academic institutions can partner with federal agencies going forward. The collaboration is structured through a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) signed by NTIA ITS and the University of Notre Dame, lead institution of SpectrumX, representing its current team of 27 universities and 41 researchers.

Undergraduates at Olin College of Engineering present course-based final projects on spectrum coexistence issues

It seemed like a normal group meeting for students to share updates. Olin College of Engineering undergraduate students filtered into an open lab on a chilly Monday evening in Needham, Massachusetts. A large antenna laid on its side, mid-build in one corner of the room, a cube satellite (cubesat) in another, and stacks of amateur radio guides are along a wall for learners to borrow and prepare for the licensing test. Around 20 group members gathered around a table, briefing the room and their advisor, Professor Whitney Lohmeyer, on their latest updates.

SpectrumX External Advisory Board meeting focuses on bringing federal stakeholders to the table

Addressing U.S. radio spectrum challenges with innovative technology and policy options is one of the main objectives of SpectrumX, a National Science Foundation (NSF) Spectrum Innovation Center. Bringing together multi-disciplinary expertise, convening discussions, and prioritizing project directions is a key way the center is working with stakeholders to advance research, policy outreach, education, and more.

SpectrumX partners with NRAO to develop electromagnetic spectrum lessons for middle and high school students

During the summer of 2022, SpectrumX along with its partners at its member institution the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) conducted a six-week virtual professional development program for ten middle and high school teachers. The educators were selected from across the United States through a competitive application process. The participants were chosen based on their experience creating original lessons and interest in incorporating more electromagnetic spectrum curricula into their classes.

Notre Dame researchers, including SpectrumX Director Nick Laneman, present latest findings and innovations to nation’s second highest-ranking military officer

In October, Admiral Christopher W. Grady, the Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, joined faculty members at the University of Notre Dame for an update on the University’s research activities. Admiral Grady, a 1984 graduate of Notre Dame, is also a past recipient of the University’s Rev. William Corby, C.S.C., Award for distinguished military service.