Analysis of the radio environment at prospective radio astronomy sites using Monte Carlo methods

Radio astronomy necessitates radio frequency bands that are both stable and free from interference at observatory locations. To comprehensively evaluate the radio environment at radio observatories, we employ Monte Carlo methods to assess the quality of observational data and predict potential interference. With an extensive dataset, we used an algorithm to find the interference threshold within the L-band, automatically identifying disruptive signals. Monte Carlo simulations were conducted to estimate whether these interference signals surpass a predetermined threshold of the total observation period, facilitating a detailed analysis of the interference profile. A Monte Carlo analysis was used on 83 hours of continuous monitoring data using a wireless environment testing system, to forecast the proportion of time during which interference signals would surpass established harmful thresholds. Our findings indicate that, within the L-band spectrum at Fenghuang Hill, Kunming City, Yunnan Province, the incidence of interference within the frequency ranges of 1330–1440 MHz, 1610–1613 MHz, and 1660–1670 MHz is acceptably low, with respective confidence levels of 96.9%, 97.4%, and 97.4% that the proportion of time these interference signals occupy does not exceed 5% of the total observational time, as stipulated by the International Telecommunication Union. Conversely, the confidence level for the 1718–1722 MHz band not exceeding 5% of the total observational time is significantly lower at 88.5%. This study offers a valuable tool for assessing the radio environment in radio astronomy research and provides a foundational basis for the scientific management and safeguarding of radio frequency bands.