The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and the European Space Agency (ESA) have announced a collaborative effort to improve mitigation measures against harmful interference in satellite systems.
The joint initiative, reflecting United Nations objectives under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, aims to ensure the sustainable and efficient use of limited space-based communication resources.
Both organizations recognize growing complexities in managing finite spectrum and orbital resources. An agreement signed on 4 March in Barcelona, Spain, formalizes their plans for closer cooperation on key issues for global digital communications.
Under the agreement, ITU and ESA will work together on:
- Sustainable and efficient spectrum use: Ensuring that radio frequency spectrum for satellite systems is utilized in a responsible and effective manner.
- Development of space-based monitoring technologies: Exploring and potentially developing advanced technologies for monitoring the use of radio frequencies to identify and geolocate sources of harmful interference.
- Exchange of information and expertise: Facilitating knowledge-sharing between the two organizations to enhance space communication systems and regulatory frameworks.
Space-based communication technologies are increasingly crucial for global connectivity, scientific research, and emergency response systems. At the same time, growing numbers of satellites and increasing risks of signal interference necessitate innovative, increasingly complex, and highly coordinated spectrum management solutions.
“Innovation and regulations are key to facilitate and preserve access to spectrum-orbit resources free from harmful interference,” said Mario Maniewicz, Director of ITU Radiocommunications Bureau. “This agreement is the first step towards a series of joint ESA-ITU efforts to ensure sustainability of space radiocommunications systems.”
Preserving radio waves for all
ITU, as the UN specialized agency for information and communication technologies, has long been at the forefront of coordination among countries and regions on radio frequencies and satellite orbits worldwide. ITU Resolution 186 (Rev. Bucharest, 2022) emphasizes the importance of transparency and confidence-building in outer space activities.
ESA, an intergovernmental organization established in 1975, supports space research and technology development for peaceful and scientific purposes. Together, ITU and ESA aim to strengthen international efforts in satellite monitoring and interference mitigation, ensuring reliable and sustainable access to satellite communication services worldwide.
“Promoting the responsible use of spectrum and preserving it from interferences is key to ensure the viability of our operators and ultimately the service delivered to their customers,” said Laurent Jaffart, ESA’s Director of Connectivity and Secure Communications. “Together with ITU, we will promote the importance of ensuring the sustainability of this limited and valuable resource and will collaborate towards establishing good practices for its responsible use for the benefit of society and businesses.”
A step towards a sustainable digital future
By combining their expertise and resources, ITU and ESA could set a precedent for enhanced cooperation in the field of satellite communications.
“The shared commitment to responsible spectrum management and technological innovation marks a significant step toward a sustainable digital future for everyone,” said Mr Maniewicz. “This initiative underscores the importance of international collaboration in addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by space technologies.”
Maniewicz and Jaffart signed for their respective organizations at the Mobile World Congress (MWC2025 Barcelona).
As the demand for satellite-based services continues to grow, partnerships like this will help maintain the integrity and accessibility of global communication networks.
ITU and ESA have reaffirmed their dedication to a future where space technologies contribute positively to societal progress and sustainable development.
Source: https://www.itu.int/hub/2025/03/itu-and-esa-agree-on-optimizing-satellite-communications/