Satellites communicate with the ground by radio, and the frequency band they use determines data rates, antenna sizes and licensing effort. According to NASA's Small Spacecraft Systems Virtual Institute, spacecraft radio communication takes place between approximately 30 MHz and 60 GHz.
The most common bands
NASA lists the following radio frequency bands:
- VHF: 30 to 300 MHz
- UHF: 300 to 1,000 MHz
- L-band: 1 to 2 GHz
- S-band: 2 to 4 GHz
- C-band: 4 to 8 GHz
- X-band: 8 to 12 GHz
- Ku-band: 12 to 18 GHz
- K-band: 18 to 27 GHz
- Ka-band: 27 to 40 GHz
- V-band: 40 to 75 GHz
What S-band ground stations are used for
According to NASA, satellite tracking, telemetry and command (TT&C) is typically conducted over S-band. An S-band ground station therefore handles the routine link for monitoring the satellite’s health and sending commands. NASA spacecraft use the government bands of S-band, X-band and Ka-band and may use NASA’s Near Space Network.
Which bands small satellites use
NASA notes that the typical bands for small satellites are UHF, S, X and Ka, and that VHF and UHF are the most mature bands for CubeSats. In recent years there has been a shift towards S and X-band, with Ka-band also being used. Lower bands up to S-band are more mature for small satellites, but their heavy use has led to crowding and challenges in acquiring licences. Higher frequencies offer more gain for a given antenna size, but are more affected by the atmosphere.
Why the band choice matters
- It determines the achievable data rate and the antenna size needed on the satellite and on the ground.
- It must be licensed and coordinated, see our article on spectrum licensing.
- Ground station providers must support the band, see ground station as a service.
Frequently asked questions
What frequency range is S-band?
2 to 4 GHz, according to NASA.
What is an S-band ground station used for?
Mainly for tracking, telemetry and command. NASA states that satellite TT&C is typically conducted over S-band.
Which bands do CubeSats use?
According to NASA, VHF and UHF are the most mature bands for CubeSats, with a recent shift towards S and X-band and some use of Ka-band.
Related reading
Sources
Cover image: Refurbishment of the 70 metre antenna at NASA's Deep Space Network Goldstone complex. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech (PIA13558), public domain.