This graph illustrates the Radio Frequency Interference (RFI) landscape across the 1000–2000 MHz frequency spectrum as measured by the Orbiton radio telescope. The addition of shaded frequency bands marks critical ranges associated with various terrestrial services, offering a precise understanding of the interference environment and its implications for observational astronomy.

1. Frequency Band Overview

Each shaded region represents the allocation of specific frequencies to widely used communication and navigation systems. The marked bands include:

Yellow Region (1000–1150 MHz): Primarily assigned to aircraft navigation systems.

Blue Region (~1227 MHz): Represents the GPS L2 and GLONASS L2 navigation frequencies.

Green Region (~1564–1609 MHz): Corresponds to the GPS L1 and GLONASS L1 bands.

Purple Region (1930–1990 MHz): Allocated to PCS (Personal Communications Service) cell phone base stations.

These allocations are potential sources of interference, which we meticulously identify to comprehend their impact on Orbiton’s high-precision data collection.

2. Analysis of Noise and Interference Peaks

The dominant spike around 1227 MHz aligns with the GPS L2 and GLONASS L2 frequency, indicative of high-power signals typical of satellite navigation systems. The persistence and strength of this peak underscore the robustness of these terrestrial transmissions, which are challenging to filter out due to their critical utility and continuous transmission.

Beyond this major peak, several secondary, yet notable peaks are visible across the spectrum, especially within the green region (1564–1609 MHz), correlating with GPS L1 and GLONASS L1. These intermittent noise spikes may reflect both direct transmissions and harmonics or spurious emissions from nearby equipment operating within or adjacent to these navigation bands. Given their proximity to sensitive astronomical bands, their precise characterization is essential for accurate data interpretation.

3. Background Noise Level and Interference-Free Windows

Apart from the highlighted RFI peaks, the baseline noise level remains approximately stable around -16 dB. This stability across the majority of the frequency range demonstrates the Orbiton radio telescope's high sensitivity and its resilience to minor fluctuations. However, the small intermittent peaks within otherwise stable bands, especially within 1400–1500 MHz, suggest possible dynamic interference sources that could originate from low-power or transient transmissions.

The interference-free windows—where noise amplitude is low and stable—are crucial for identifying frequencies suitable for astronomical observations. The presence of these clean spectral segments reaffirms Orbiton’s capacity to detect faint celestial signals within an otherwise interference-laden spectrum, highlighting the telescope’s precision and its advanced capability to distinguish between genuine astronomical phenomena and terrestrial noise.

4. Implications for Astronomical Data Quality

The identification of specific RFI bands and the mapping of their interference profiles allow us to effectively delineate the observational constraints and strengths of Orbiton. By carefully recognizing the impact of high-intensity terrestrial signals, such as those from navigation and communication services, we establish a framework for precise calibration and improved data processing. The clear distinction of noise sources not only enhances data quality but also ensures that scientific observations from Orbiton remain reliable and uncontaminated by non-astronomical signals.

This analysis of the noise pattern underscores Orbiton’s meticulous approach to understanding and managing RFI, solidifying its role as a cutting-edge platform for capturing pristine radio astronomical data accessible worldwide.