BARTH@mit-mc.arpa (Richard Barth) (05/08/86)
This message doesn't fit the pattern of mail you normally get from
this group. I am sending it- once only- because I think the people
who will read this are in a position to get this information to those
who need it badly. If this doesn't concern you directly, pass
it along. If you're affiliated with a college or university, please
send a hard copy to the E.E. and meteorology departments.
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The TIROS-N meteorological satellites are operated by NOAA
to track storms and provide other environmental information.
The data collected are sent down to earth on radio frequencies
of 1700-1710 MHz, among others. These data can be received by
anybody who cares to listen to them, and a number of colleges,
weather forecasters, and private individuals listen regularly.
No license and no permission are needed.
The Federal Communications Commission is now considering a
proposal to allow into this band a new type of radio device
which could seriously interfere with the reception of these
satellite signals. The satellite receivers are legally entitled
to protection, but before they can be protected they have to be
identified. If you are receiving these signals, or expect to be
receiving them in the future, please contact NOAA for information
on how your reception can be protected. There is no charge for
this information, and you incur no obligation by asking for it.
Whether or not you identify your receiver to NOAA, you're
at liberty to continue listening to these signals. If you don't
register your receiver, however, you run the risk of not being
able to hear them much longer.
For details, write:
U.S. Dept. of Commerce
Office of Radio Frequency Management
Room 6106, Main Commerce Building
Washington DC 20230
Or call (202) 377-0635
Or send the name and address of an appropriate contact to:
BARTH@MIT-MC via the net, or
RBARTH via MCI Mail