During the meeting, Intersputnik experts presented two substantial and structural proposals on the content and layout of one of the fundamental documents, the ITU-R Satellite Communications Handbook, as well as another strategic document, the ITU-R Handbook on Best Practices for the Sustainable Use of Frequencies and Associated Non-GSO Orbits by Space Radiocommunication Services. Also, Intersputnik representative was appointed as the editor of the second handbook.

The main purpose of the 55th meeting of Working Party 4A was to prepare proposals for the next World Radiocommunication Conference 2027 (WRC-27). Satellite communications experts from all over the world involved in the working party have elaborated the protection criteria against interference of broadcast and communications satellite systems and continued to develop a methodology for assessing mutual interference of satellite systems located in different orbits.

Another important objective of the meeting was to work on the ITU-R reference materials — the updated Satellite Communications Handbook and the Handbook on Best Practices for the Sustainable Use of Frequencies and Associated Non-GSO Orbits by Space Radiocommunication Services. Mechanisms for updating the first handbook were identified, and a methodology for elaborating the second handbook was compiled. ITU handbooks contain important up-to-date information on the state of a particular sector of the communications industry. They are designed to help the market players to develop their services competently, taking into account current regulatory trends. 

The vast experience of Intersputnik in expanding international cooperation, as well as in improving the regulatory and legal framework of the satellite communications industry allowed the Organization’s delegation to present two important proposals for the above-mentioned handbooks during the working party meeting. Both proposals were connected with the areas in which the Organization's experts have maximum competence. Specifically, at the proposal of Intersputnik, the draft table of contents for the Satellite Communications Handbook was supplemented with the new chapter on international cooperation in satellite communications. 

The draft table of contents for the new ITU-R Handbook of Best Practices for the Sustainable Use of Frequencies and Associated Non-GSO Orbits by Space Radiocommunication Services was developed with the direct participation of Intersputnik experts, based on the Organization's vast history of successful cooperation with ITU. Recognising Intersputnik's significant contribution to the elaboration of satcom industry regulatory documents, as well as the high level of competence of the Organization's experts and the significance of their work within the ITU bodies, the working party appointed Elina Morozova, Executive Director of Intersputnik, as the editor of this handbook. 

As an international organization, Intersputnik actively participates in the operations of specialised international organisations and committees in order to have a real opportunity to shape international policy on satellite communications for the benefit of its member countries. Intersputnik considers satellite communications as a crucial factor in connecting the unconnected and achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals. 

Photo: ©ITU/J.MacLeod