Trends in Aeronautical Flight Test Telemetry

Abstract

Based on Action Item 1.5 and the relevant investigations and studies, the World Radio communication Conference (WRC 2007) decided upon new additional frequency spectrum allocations for Aeronautical Mobile Telemetry (AMT).
 Four new frequency bands in the range from 4400 to 6700 MHz have been allocated to the Aeronautical Mobile Service (AMS) on a co-primary basis, limited to AMT for flight testing by aircraft stations. The range from 5091 to 5150 MHz may be used worldwide, allowing the implication of wide band telemetry links and helping the international cooperation and standardization in flight test missions.
 After reviewing the resolutions COM 4/2 and COM 4/7 of the WRC 2007 it is realized that C-Band becomes an attractive band for AMT. Components and systems for either new state-of-the-art equipment or for the upgrade of existing systems (in L-or S-Band) are already in work. One area of concern requiring an up front evaluation is tracking algorithms and mechanical tracking systems that operate specifically in C-Band. Future planning to greater utilize this band is presented.