Spectrum Sharing Across Terrestrial and Non-Terrestrial Services in the FR3 Upper Midband
Letting 6G networks and satellites share the same radio frequencies without jamming each other
Engineers tested whether next-generation 6G mobile networks can operate in the same radio frequencies as existing satellites without causing dangerous interference. Using a detailed 3D model of Boston and computer simulations, they found that interference can be managed through careful network design—specifically by controlling which directions antennas transmit and where base stations are physically located, even when radio signals bounce off buildings and travel indirect paths.
The radio spectrum between 7 and 24 GHz is packed with existing users—weather satellites, GPS systems, radio telescopes, and military radar all operate there. 6G networks need access to these same frequencies to deliver the speeds and capacity the technology promises. This research shows coexistence is technically possible with thoughtful deployment, which means regulators can open these bands to 6G without forcing expensive relocations of current satellite and space services.