Objections to 5G spectrum decision raised by international weather agencies
The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) and the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) in a news release have stated that at the ITU’s 2019 World Radiocommunication Conference in Egypt a decision was made that could interfere with meteorological satellite observations and negatively impact the accuracy of weather forecasts.
Meteorologists are concerned that the decision to allow 5G technologies to operate in the radio frequency band 24.25 to 27.5 GHz could interfere with weather satellites’ passive microwave sensors ability to detect atmospheric water vapor through signals emitted within the 23.6 to 24GHz range. Though WRO delegates mandated that 5G equipment operating from 24.35-27.5 GHz should have limited signal strength, the WMO and ECMWF are concerned the rule is not sufficient to limit the impact on the weather readings.
About author
DW Team
The GIP Digital Watch Observatory team, consisting of over 30 digital policy experts from around the world, excels in the fields of research and analysis on digital policy issues. The team is backed by the creative prowess of Creative Lab Diplo and the technical expertise of the Diplo tech team.