September 2025 | Technical Report NTIA TR 25-579
2024 McMurdo Area Radio Noise Measurements and Analysis
Cite This Publication
Robert J. Achatz, Adam C. Hicks, Sarah L. Vasel, and Ryan S. McCullough, “2024 McMurdo Area Radio Noise Measurements and Analysis,” Technical Report NTIA TR 25-579, U.S. Department of Commerce, National Telecommunications and Information Administration, Institute for Telecommunication Sciences, September 2025. https://doi.org/10.70220/lfcj7dpl
Robert J. Achatz 
, Adam C. Hicks , Sarah L. Vasel, and Ryan S. McCullough
Abstract:
The Institute for Telecommunication Sciences (ITS) performed high frequency (HF) band (3-30 MHz) radio noise power measurements at six locations in the McMurdo Station (MS), Antarctica (AQ), area and one location at the Black Island Telecommunication Facility (BITF) 32 km (20 mi) from MS. The primary purpose of the measurements is to compare MS and BITF radio noise powers so that HF radio system designers can assess the feasibility of relocating BITF air traffic control (ATC) and field party communication HF antennas and receivers to MS. Measurements were performed with portable rod (PR) and fixed conical monopole (CM) antennas. Twenty-four–hour spectrum occupancy plots show most signals below 15 MHz at BITF and MS. Differences in signal populations between locations were observed. Taking into account the location variability endemic to radio noise, noise at the ATC channel frequencies was found to be generally higher at MS than at BITF. BITF noise was similar to what would be expected of a quiet rural noise environment. MS noise was similar to what would be expected of a rural or residential noise environment although noise at 9 MHz was comparable to that of an urban setting.
For funding information concerning this report, click this link.
Funding Information
Performing Agency
Disclaimer:
Certain commercial equipment, components, and software may be identified in this report to specify adequately the technical aspects of the reported results. In no case does such identification imply recommendation or endorsement by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, nor does it imply that the equipment or software identified is necessarily the best available for the particular application or uses.
For questions or information on this or any other NTIA scientific publication, contact the ITS Publications Office at ITSinfo@ntia.gov or 303-497-3572.