Publication: Mitigating conflict situations in spectrum sharing: A localized and decentralized governance approach

Published on SSRN, August 15, 2022
Authored by: Pedro Bustamante, University of Pittsburgh – School of Information Sciences, Students; Carnegie Mellon University

Abstract: As spectrum sharing matures, usage conflict situations (e.g., harmful interference) remain a common concern. To deal with the challenges associated with conflict situations, multiple solutions have been proposed. Examples of approaches to mitigate conflict situations include the creation of exclusion and coordination zones, the development of spectrum coordinators (e.g., SAS), or the implementation of sensing-based mechanisms. Nonetheless, most of these solutions are designed as “one-size-fits-all” or global solutions. In this paper, we propose a local analysis of conflict situations in spectrum sharing settings through the design, development, and deployment of polycentric and self-governance systems. We have created a multi-tiered spectrum sharing model to analyze such systems using Agent-Based Modeling, Common-Pool Resource frameworks, and the core definitions of Radio Environment Maps (REMs).

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4189545

Publication: Spectrum Rights in Outer Space: Interference Management for Mega-constellations

Published at SSRN, August 2, 2022
Authored by: Randall Berry (Northwestern University), Pedro Bustamante (University of Pittsburgh – School of Information Sciences, Students; Carnegie Mellon University), Dongning Guo (Northwestern University), Thomas W. Hazlett (Clemson University), Michael Honig (Northwestern University), Whitney Lohmeyer (Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering), Ilia Murtazashvili (University of Pittsburgh – Graduate School of Public and International Affairs), Scott Palo (University of Colorado), Martin B. H. Weiss (University of Pittsburgh – School of Computing and Information)

Abstract (brief): The rapid increase in low earth orbiting, non-Geostationary (NGSO) communication satellites raises concerns related to the coordination of radio frequency access across competing NGSO systems. Responding to an April 2020 petition by SpaceX, the FCC issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking NPRM (FCC 21-123) aimed at updating its NGSO spectrum sharing rules in the relevant frequencies (which involve ten distinct bands between 10 and 51 GHz).2 In this paper, we examine the rights regime proposed by the FCC and, guided by empirical evidence, propose alternatives that may better resolve the challenges confronted. Spectrum policy for satellite systems has been a topic for regulators for several decades, and the new satellite system, radio technologies, and spectrum sharing approaches make the topic ripe for reconsideration. (Cont’d on publication.)

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.4178793