Lbånd

Lbånd, commonly known as L-band, denotes the radio frequency range from 1 GHz to 2 GHz. It lies between lower-frequency and higher-frequency bands used for communications and sensing, and is characterized by relatively long wavelengths, approximately 15 to 30 centimeters.

The L-band is used for a variety of civil, commercial, and military applications. Satellite communications often employ L-band hardware and links, including certain mobile satellite services. Navigation systems transmit signals in the L-band; for example, the Global Positioning System (GPS) uses L-band frequencies around 1.575 GHz (L1) and 1.227 GHz (L2). L-band is also used by some radar and Earth observation instruments, including spaceborne and airborne synthetic aperture radar systems, and by amateur radio in portions of the band in some regions.

Technical characteristics of L-band provide a balance between reasonably small antenna sizes and manageable propagation losses. The band experiences less atmospheric attenuation than higher-frequency bands and offers good penetration through light foliage and moderate terrain. These properties influence the design of receivers, antennas, and link budgets for both terrestrial and space-based systems.

Regulation and allocation of L-band frequencies are managed by international bodies such as the International Telecommunication Union, with specific allocations varying by region and service (civil, military, or combined). This band remains important for GNSS, satellite backhaul, certain radar applications, and long-range communications, while continuing to evolve with advances in electronics and satellite technology.