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United States National Radio Quiet Zone: Difference between revisions

Coordinates: 38°22′30″N 79°30′00″W / 38.375°N 79.5°W / 38.375; -79.5
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{{short description|Specific land area in which radio transmissions are heavily restricted}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=April 2012}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=April 2012}}
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[[File:National Radio Quiet Zone.svg|thumb|250px|The NRQZ spans the states of West Virginia, Virginia, and a small part of Maryland.]]
[[File:National Radio Quiet Zone.svg|thumb|250px|The NRQZ includes portions of West Virginia, Virginia, and a small part of Maryland.]]


The '''National Radio Quiet Zone''' ('''NRQZ''') is a large area of land in the [[United States]] designated as a [[radio quiet zone]], in which [[radio transmission]]s are heavily restricted by law to facilitate [[scientific research]] and the gathering of [[military intelligence]]. Roughly half of the zone is located in the [[Blue Ridge Mountains]] of west-central [[Virginia]] while the other half is the [[Allegheny Mountains]] of east-central [[West Virginia]]; a small part of the zone is in the southernmost tip of the [[Maryland]] [[panhandle]].
The '''National Radio Quiet Zone''' ('''NRQZ''') is a large area of land in the [[United States]] designated as a [[radio quiet zone]], in which [[radio transmission]]s are restricted by law to facilitate [[scientific research]] and the gathering of [[military intelligence]]. About half of the zone is located in the [[Blue Ridge Mountains]] of west-central [[Virginia]] while the other half is in the [[Allegheny Mountains]] of east-central [[West Virginia]]; a small part of the zone is in the southernmost tip of the [[Maryland panhandle]].


== Location ==
== Location ==
The Quiet Zone is an approximate rectangle of land, {{convert|107.0|mi|km}} on the north edge, {{convert|109.6|mi|km}} on the south edge and {{convert|120.9|mi|km}} on the east and west edges, comprising approximately {{convert|13000|sqmi|km2 acre}}. It straddles the borders of [[Virginia]] and [[West Virginia]], and also includes a sliver of [[Maryland]]. The NRQZ is centered between the [[Green Bank Observatory]] in [[Green Bank, West Virginia]], and [[Sugar Grove Station]] in [[Sugar Grove, West Virginia]]. It includes all land with latitudes between 37° 30′ 0.4″ N and 39° 15′ 0.4″ N, and longitudes between 78° 29′ 59.0″ W and 80° 29′ 59.2″ W.<ref name="nrqz-official">{{cite web|url=https://science.nrao.edu/facilities/gbt/interference-protection/nrqz/|title=National Radio Quiet Zone|publisher=National Radio Astronomy Observatory|accessdate=February 20, 2015}}</ref>
The Quiet Zone is an approximate rectangle of land, {{convert|107.0|mi|km}} on the north edge, {{convert|109.6|mi|km}} on the south edge and {{convert|120.9|mi|km}} on the east and west edges, comprising approximately {{convert|13000|sqmi|km2 acre}}. It straddles the borders of [[Virginia]] and [[West Virginia]], and also includes a small part of [[Maryland]]. The NRQZ is centered between the [[Green Bank Observatory]] in [[Green Bank, West Virginia]], and [[Sugar Grove Station]] in [[Sugar Grove, West Virginia]]. It includes all land with latitudes between 37° 30′ 0.4″ N and 39° 15′ 0.4″ N, and longitudes between 78° 29′ 59.0″ W and 80° 29′ 59.2″ W.<ref name="nrqz-official">{{cite web|url=https://science.nrao.edu/facilities/gbt/interference-protection/nrqz/|title=National Radio Quiet Zone|publisher=National Radio Astronomy Observatory|access-date=February 20, 2015}}</ref>


== Restrictions ==
== Restrictions ==
[[File:NRAO old patrol truck.jpg|thumb|An older model of patrol truck used to identify source of radio interference<ref>{{cite news|last1=Casto|first1=James E.|title=NRAO Vehicle Fleet|url=http://www.statejournal.com/story/25980272/nrao-vehicle-fleet|accessdate=31 October 2016|work=The State Journal|date=9 July 2014}}</ref>]]
[[File:NRAO old patrol truck.jpg|thumb|An older patrol truck used to locate radio interference<ref>{{cite news|last1=Casto|first1=James E.|title=NRAO Vehicle Fleet|url=http://www.statejournal.com/story/25980272/nrao-vehicle-fleet|access-date=31 October 2016|work=The State Journal|date=9 July 2014}}</ref>.]]
[[File:NRAO modern patrol truck.jpg|thumb|A modern patrol truck equipped with detectors<ref>{{cite news|last1=Bucktin|first1=Christopher|title=Telescope Town can hear to within second of the Big Bang but won't let locals use mobiles|url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/telescope-town-can-hear-within-6155014|accessdate=31 October 2016|work=Mirror|date=28 July 2015}}</ref>]]
[[File:NRAO modern patrol truck.jpg|thumb|A modern patrol truck equipped with detectors<ref>{{cite news|last1=Bucktin|first1=Christopher|title=Telescope Town can hear to within second of the Big Bang but won't let locals use mobiles|url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/world-news/telescope-town-can-hear-within-6155014|access-date=31 October 2016|work=Mirror|date=28 July 2015}}</ref>.]]
Most [[broadcast transmitter]]s in the core of the Quiet Zone are forced to operate at reduced power and use highly directional antennas. This makes [[cable television|cable]] and [[satellite television|satellite]] all but essential for acceptable television in much of the region. Restrictions on transmissions are tightest within ten miles (16 km) of the Green Bank and Sugar Grove facilities,<ref name="nrao-cniday"/> where most omnidirectional and high-power transmissions are prohibited.
Most [[broadcast transmitter]]s in the central area of the Quiet Zone are required to operate at reduced power and use directional antennas. This makes [[cable television|cable]] and [[satellite television|satellite]] essential for acceptable television in much of the region. Restrictions of transmissions are strictest within ten miles (16 km) of the Green Bank and Sugar Grove facilities,<ref name="nrao-cniday"/> where most omnidirectional and high-power transmissions are prohibited.


Not all radio transmissions are prohibited in the core of the Quiet Zone. For example, [[emergency service]] (police, fire, and ambulance) radios and [[CB radio]]s are permitted. However, large transmitter owners must typically coordinate their operations with the Green Bank Observatory. The only broadcast [[radio station]]s are part of the [[Allegheny Mountain Radio]] network, with just one station in the AM band, and several [[low-power FM]] [[broadcast translator]] stations. Exceptions to restrictions are usually determined on a case-by-case basis, with preference given to [[public safety]] concerns, such as remote alarm systems, [[radio repeater|repeater]]s for emergency services, and [[NOAA Weather Radio]].
Not all radio transmissions are prohibited in the Quiet Zone. For example, [[emergency service]] (police, fire, and ambulance) radios and [[CB radio]]s are permitted. However, large transmitter owners, including television stations in the [[Harrisonburg, Virginia|Harrisonburg]]-[[Staunton, Virginia|Staunton]] and [[Charlottesville, Virginia|Charlottesville]] markets, must coordinate their operations with the Green Bank Observatory. The only broadcast radio stations in the core of the Quiet Zone are part of the [[Allegheny Mountain Radio]] network, with one [[daytimer]] AM station in [[Frost, West Virginia]], ten miles from the observatory, and low-powered FM stations in [[Monterey, Virginia]] and [[Marlinton, West Virginia]]. Exceptions to restrictions are usually determined on a case-by-case basis, with preference given to [[public safety]] concerns, such as remote alarm systems, [[radio repeater|repeater]]s for emergency services, and [[NOAA Weather Radio]].


The most severe restrictions imposed on the general public are only in place within the 20-mile (32 km) radius of the Green Bank Observatory.<ref name="npr2013">{{Cite web|url=https://www.npr.org/blogs/alltechconsidered/2013/10/08/218976699/enter-the-quiet-zone-where-cell-service-wi-fi-are-banned|publisher=National Public Radio| accessdate=2013-10-08| title=Enter The Quiet Zone: Where Cell Service, Wi-Fi Are Banned|author=Hu, Elise |authorlink=Elise Hu|date=Oct 8, 2013|quote=To keep the zone protected from signals that could confuse the telescope, Niday and others from the NRAO drive the 20-mile radius around the Green Bank Telescope weekly, policing for possible interference.}}</ref> The Observatory actively polices the area for devices emitting noticeably high amounts of [[electromagnetic radiation]] such as [[microwave oven]]s, [[Wi-Fi]] [[router (computing)|router]]s and faulty electrical equipment and request citizens discontinue their usage. They possess no legal powers of enforcement<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-32758042|title=The Quiet Zone: Where mobile phones are banned|author1=Holba, Emile |author2=Hall, Sara Jane |date=19 May 2015|work=BBC|accessdate=July 14, 2016}}</ref> (although the FCC can still impose a fine of $50 on violators<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gb.nrao.edu/~cniday/chapter-37a.html|title=West Virginia Code, Chapter 37A|author=|date=|work=National Radio Astronomy Observatory|accessdate=July 14, 2016}}</ref>), but will work with residents to find solutions.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.iucaf.org/sschool/procs/nrqz.pdf |title=The National Radio Quiet Zone | author1=Sizemore, Wes |author2=Acree, Jeff | publisher=NRAO | accessdate=July 14, 2016 |quote=NRAO operates the National Radio Quiet Zone at Green Bank. We briefly outline its salient characteristics, and our experience with its day to day operation.}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.city-data.com/forum/west-virginia/1804820-national-radio-quiet-zone.html|title="National Radio Quiet Zone"... (Parkersburg, Elkins: construction, living, zip code) - West Virginia (WV) - City-Data Forum|author=|date=|work=city-data.com|accessdate=July 14, 2016}}</ref>
The most severe restrictions to the general public are imposed within a 20-mile (32 km) radius of the Green Bank Observatory.<ref name="npr2013">{{Cite web|url=https://www.npr.org/blogs/alltechconsidered/2013/10/08/218976699/enter-the-quiet-zone-where-cell-service-wi-fi-are-banned|publisher=National Public Radio| access-date=2013-10-08| title=Enter The Quiet Zone: Where Cell Service, Wi-Fi Are Banned|author=Hu, Elise |author-link=Elise Hu|date=Oct 8, 2013|quote=To keep the zone protected from signals that could confuse the telescope, Niday and others from the NRAO drive the 20-mile radius around the Green Bank Telescope weekly, policing for possible interference.}}</ref> The Observatory polices the area actively for devices emitting excessive [[electromagnetic radiation]] such as [[microwave oven]]s, [[Wi-Fi]] [[wireless access point|access point]]s and faulty electrical equipment and request citizens discontinue their usage. It does not have enforcement power<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-32758042|title=The Quiet Zone: Where mobile phones are banned|author1=Holba, Emile |author2=Hall, Sara Jane |date=19 May 2015|work=BBC|access-date=July 14, 2016}}</ref> (although the FCC can impose a fine of $50 on violators<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gb.nrao.edu/~cniday/chapter-37a.html|title=West Virginia Code, Chapter 37A|work=National Radio Astronomy Observatory|access-date=July 14, 2016}}</ref>), but will work with residents to find solutions.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.iucaf.org/sschool/procs/nrqz.pdf |title=The National Radio Quiet Zone | author1=Sizemore, Wes |author2=Acree, Jeff | publisher=NRAO | access-date=July 14, 2016 |quote=NRAO operates the National Radio Quiet Zone at Green Bank. We briefly outline its salient characteristics, and our experience with its day to day operation.}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.city-data.com/forum/west-virginia/1804820-national-radio-quiet-zone.html|title="National Radio Quiet Zone"... (Parkersburg, Elkins: construction, living, zip code) - West Virginia (WV) - City-Data Forum|work=city-data.com|access-date=July 14, 2016}}</ref>


[[Cellular telephone]] use in the core of the zone is also highly restricted.<ref name="npr2013" /> {{Cquote|text="In Green Bank, though, the rules are even stronger, so much that some residents who are in direct sight of the radio telescope receivers, can't use Wi-Fi devices and even microwave ovens in all Green Bank Radio Astronomy housing units. [[Directional antenna|Directional]] cellphone service areas are very limited, such as in [[Snowshoe Mountain]] Resort in nearby [[Snowshoe, West Virginia]], one of the state's major [[ski area]]s."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://wgme.com/news/nation-world/full-measure-the-no-fi-zone|title='Full Measure': The No-Fi zone|first=Joce |last=Sterman|date=June 26, 2016|work=WGME|accessdate=April 21, 2017}}</ref>}}
[[Cellular telephone]] use in the central area of the zone is also very restricted.<ref name="npr2013" /> {{Cquote|text="In Green Bank, though, the rules are even stronger, so much that some residents who are in direct sight of the radio telescope receivers, can't use Wi-Fi devices and even microwave ovens in all Green Bank Radio Astronomy housing units. [[Directional antenna|Directional]] cellphone service areas are very limited, such as in [[Snowshoe Mountain]] Resort in nearby [[Snowshoe, West Virginia]], one of the state's major [[ski area]]s."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://wgme.com/news/nation-world/full-measure-the-no-fi-zone|title='Full Measure': The No-Fi zone|first=Joce |last=Sterman|date=June 26, 2016|work=WGME|access-date=April 21, 2017}}</ref>}}


===Zones of protection===
===Zones of protection===
[[File:Warning signs at NRAO zone 1 entrance.jpg|thumb|upright|Warning signs at zone 1 entrance]]
[[File:Warning signs at NRAO zone 1 entrance.jpg|thumb|upright|Warning signs at zone 1 entrance.]]
The Green Bank Interference Protection Group maintains policies to manage [[radio-frequency interference]] (RFI) by dividing into five zones based on available legal instruments.<ref>{{cite report |last1=Beaudet |first1=C. |last2=Clark |first2=C. |last3=Niday |first3=C. |last4=Ghigo |first4=F. |last5=Ford |first5=J. |last6=McCullough |first6=R. |last7=Sizemore |first7=W. |last8=Woody |first8=P. |title=The Green Bank Interference Protection Group: Policies for RFI Management |date=24 January 2007 |url=http://www.gb.nrao.edu/IPG/Green%20Bank%20Interference%20Protection%20Group%20Policy%20Paper%20Rev1.pdf }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=NRAO Green Bank Policies for RFI Management |url=http://www.gb.nrao.edu/IPG/Green%20Bank%20Employee%20Presentation.ppt|accessdate=31 October 2016}}</ref>
The Green Bank Interference Protection Group maintains policies to manage [[radio-frequency interference]] (RFI) by dividing into five zones based on available legal instruments.<ref>{{cite report |last1=Beaudet |first1=C. |last2=Clark |first2=C. |last3=Niday |first3=C. |last4=Ghigo |first4=F. |last5=Ford |first5=J. |last6=McCullough |first6=R. |last7=Sizemore |first7=W. |last8=Woody |first8=P. |title=The Green Bank Interference Protection Group: Policies for RFI Management |date=24 January 2007 |url=http://www.gb.nrao.edu/IPG/Green%20Bank%20Interference%20Protection%20Group%20Policy%20Paper%20Rev1.pdf }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=NRAO Green Bank Policies for RFI Management |url=http://www.gb.nrao.edu/IPG/Green%20Bank%20Employee%20Presentation.ppt|access-date=31 October 2016}}</ref>


Zone 1 and zone 2 are located within the property of the Green Bank Observatory. The entire property is designed as zone 1 except small portions (such as housing, visitor and laboratory areas) that are designed as zone 2. Zone 1, also called Radio Astronomy Instrument Zone, restricts [[intentional radiator]]s to only those are deemed essential. All [[unintentional radiator]]s must be operated within the [[ITU-R]] RA.769 recommendations on protection criteria used for radio astronomical measurements. [[Gasoline]]-powered motor vehicles are forbidden within zone 1 as the ignition system on [[spark plug|spark]]-ignited engines generates noticeable radio interference, resulting in all vehicles and equipment needing to be [[Diesel fuel|diesel]]-powered.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.gb.nrao.edu/visitors/TheEnemyIsUs.pdf|title=NRAO Green Bank Site RFI Regulations for Visitors|last=|first=|date=|website=|publisher=National Radio Astronomy Observatory|page=2|access-date=October 14, 2016}}</ref> Zone 2, also called Observatory Building Zone, allows intentional radiators licensed by National Radio Quiet Zone, but not other radiators such as Wi-Fi, [[cordless phone]]s, and other wireless equipment. Certain types of unintentional radiators are allowed, however [[digital camera]]s are prohibited, although [[film]] [[photography]] is allowed.<ref>https://www.nytimes.com/2019/06/21/opinion/sunday/wifi-wilderness-privacy-reserves.html</ref>
Zone 1 and Zone 2 are located within the property of the Green Bank Observatory. The entire property is designed as Zone 1 except small portions (such as housing, visitor, and laboratory areas) that are designed as Zone 2. Zone 1, also termed the Radio Astronomy Instrument Zone, restricts [[intentional radiator]]s only to those are deemed essential. All [[unintentional radiator]]s must be operated within the {{nowrap|ITU-R RA.769}} recommendations on protection criteria used for radio astronomical measurements. Gasoline-powered motor vehicles are prohibited in Zone 1 as their [[spark plug|spark-ignition]] engines generate significant radio interference, resulting in the requirement that all vehicles and equipment be [[Diesel fuel|diesel]]-powered.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.gb.nrao.edu/visitors/TheEnemyIsUs.pdf|title=NRAO Green Bank Site RFI Regulations for Visitors|publisher=National Radio Astronomy Observatory|page=2|access-date=October 14, 2016}}</ref> Zone 2, also called Observatory Building Zone, allows intentional radiators licensed by National Radio Quiet Zone, but not other radiators such as Wi-Fi, [[cordless phone]]s, and other wireless equipment. Certain types of unintentional radiators are allowed. [[Digital camera]]s are prohibited, although [[Photographic film|film]] photography is allowed.<ref name="auto">{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2019/06/21/opinion/sunday/wifi-wilderness-privacy-reserves.html|title=Opinion &#124; The Land Where the Internet Ends|first1=Damon|last1=Winter|first2=Pagan|last2=Kennedy|newspaper=The New York Times|date=June 21, 2019|accessdate=April 16, 2021}}</ref>


Zone 3 and zone 4 are governed by the Radio Astronomy Zoning Act which is the Chapter 37A of the West Virginia Code. It strictly regulates radio transmitters within {{convert|2|mi|km}} and within {{convert|10|mi|km}} of the Green Bank Observatory, respectively.<ref name="nrao-cniday">{{Cite web|url=http://www.gb.nrao.edu/~cniday/chapter-37a.html|publisher=Chuck Niday - National Radio Astronomy Observatory|accessdate=2013-10-08|title=West Virginia Code, Chapter 37A}}</ref> Within these zones, interference to observations will be identified and documented. The owners of the offending equipment will be personally visited to request cooperation in eliminating the interference. Enforcement is used as a last resort. Enforcement in zone 4 may be more lenient than the limit set in the Chapter 37A.
Zone 3 and Zone 4 are governed by the Radio Astronomy Zoning Act which is the Chapter 37A of the West Virginia Code. It strictly regulates radio transmitters within {{convert|2|mi|km}} and within {{convert|10|mi|km}} of the Green Bank Observatory, respectively.<ref name="nrao-cniday">{{Cite web|url=http://www.gb.nrao.edu/~cniday/chapter-37a.html|publisher=Chuck Niday - National Radio Astronomy Observatory|access-date=2013-10-08|title=West Virginia Code, Chapter 37A}}</ref> Within these zones, interference to observations will be identified and documented. The owners of the offending equipment will be visited personally to request cooperation in eliminating the interference. Enforcement is used as a last resort. Enforcement in Zone 4 may be more lenient than the limit set by Chapter 37A.


Zone 5 is the boundary of National Radio Quiet Zone; the National Radio Quiet Zone Administrator at the Green Bank Observatory manages the enforcement policies.
Zone 5 is the boundary of National Radio Quiet Zone; the National Radio Quiet Zone Administrator at the Green Bank Observatory manages the enforcement policies.
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The [[Federal Communications Commission]] (FCC) created the Quiet Zone in 1958 to protect the [[radio telescope]]s at Green Bank and Sugar Grove from harmful interference.<ref name ="National Radio Quiet Zone">{{cite web |url=https://science.nrao.edu/facilities/gbt/interference-protection/nrqz|title=National Radio Quiet Zone - National Radio Astronomy Observatory}}</ref> Today, the Green Bank Observatory oversees the Quiet Zone.
The [[Federal Communications Commission]] (FCC) created the Quiet Zone in 1958 to protect the [[radio telescope]]s at Green Bank and Sugar Grove from harmful interference.<ref name ="National Radio Quiet Zone">{{cite web |url=https://science.nrao.edu/facilities/gbt/interference-protection/nrqz|title=National Radio Quiet Zone - National Radio Astronomy Observatory}}</ref> Today, the Green Bank Observatory oversees the Quiet Zone.


The Quiet Zone also protects the antennas and receivers of the [[United States Navy|U.S. Navy]]'s [[Navy Information Operations Command|Information Operations Command]] (NIOC) at Sugar Grove. The NIOC is the location of electronic intelligence-gathering systems, and is today said to be a key station in the [[ECHELON]] system operated by the [[National Security Agency]] (NSA).<ref name="Interception Capabilities 2000 Report">{{cite web |url=http://www.cyber-rights.org/interception/stoa/ic2kreport.htm#_Toc448565544 |title=Interception Capabilities 2000, Sugar Grove, Virginia&nbsp;– COMSAT interception at ECHELON site |work=Interception of Communications Section |publisher=Cyber-Rights & Cyber-Liberties (UK) |location=Leeds, UK |date=May 11, 1999 |archiveurl=http://www.fas.org/irp/eprint/ic2000/ic2000.htm#_Toc448565544 |archivedate=May 30, 2008 |accessdate=September 14, 2011 |quote=Interception Capabilities 2000 Report to the Director General for Research of the European Parliament (Scientific and Technical Options Assessment programme office) on the development of surveillance technology and risk of abuse of economic information. }}</ref>
The Quiet Zone also protects the antennas and receivers of the [[United States Navy|U.S. Navy]]'s [[Navy Information Operations Command|Information Operations Command]] (NIOC) at Sugar Grove. The NIOC is the location of electronic intelligence-gathering systems, and is today said to be a key station in the [[ECHELON]] system operated by the [[National Security Agency]] (NSA).<ref name="Interception Capabilities 2000 Report">{{cite web |url=http://www.cyber-rights.org/interception/stoa/ic2kreport.htm |title=Interception Capabilities 2000, Sugar Grove, Virginia&nbsp;– COMSAT interception at ECHELON site |work=Interception of Communications Section |publisher=Cyber-Rights & Cyber-Liberties (UK) |location=Leeds, UK |date=May 11, 1999 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110928074717/http://www.cyber-rights.org/interception/stoa/ic2kreport.htm#_Toc448565544 |archive-date=September 28, 2011 |access-date=September 14, 2011 |quote=Interception Capabilities 2000 Report to the Director General for Research of the European Parliament (Scientific and Technical Options Assessment programme office) on the development of surveillance technology and risk of abuse of economic information. |url-status=bot: unknown }}</ref>


The area has also attracted people who believe they suffer from [[electromagnetic hypersensitivity]].<ref name=ehs>{{cite news | url = https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-14887428 | title = 'Wi-fi refugees' shelter in West Virginia mountains | first = Jane | last = O'Brien | first2= Matt | last2= Danzico |date = September 12, 2011 |publisher=BBC News | accessdate =September 13, 2011}}</ref><ref name=guardian-thetownthatbannedwifi>{{cite news|title=The town that banned Wi-Fi|url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2015/jun/21/the-town-that-banned-wi-fi|accessdate=21 June 2015|work=The Guardian}}</ref><ref>https://www.nytimes.com/2019/06/21/opinion/sunday/wifi-wilderness-privacy-reserves.html</ref>
The area has also attracted people who believe they suffer from [[electromagnetic hypersensitivity]],<ref name=ehs>{{cite news | url = https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-14887428 | title = 'Wi-fi refugees' shelter in West Virginia mountains | first1 = Jane | last1 = O'Brien | first2= Matt | last2= Danzico |date = September 12, 2011 |publisher=BBC News | access-date =September 13, 2011}}</ref><ref name=guardian-thetownthatbannedwifi>{{cite news|title=The town that banned Wi-Fi|url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2015/jun/21/the-town-that-banned-wi-fi|access-date=21 June 2015|work=The Guardian}}</ref><ref name="auto"/> though scientific experiments have shown this condition is caused by the [[nocebo effect]] rather than electromagnetic waves.<ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Regel|first1=Sabine J.|last2=Negovetic|first2=Sonja|last3=R|first3=öösli Martin|last4=Berdi|first4=ñas Veronica|last5=Schuderer|first5=Jürgen|last6=Huss|first6=Anke|last7=Lott|first7=Urs|last8=Kuster|first8=Niels|last9=Achermann|first9=Peter|date=2006-08-01|title=UMTS Base Station-like Exposure, Well-Being, and Cognitive Performance|journal=Environmental Health Perspectives|volume=114|issue=8|pages=1270–1275|doi=10.1289/ehp.8934|pmc=1552030|pmid=16882538}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Rubin|first1=G. James|last2=Hahn|first2=Gareth|last3=Everitt|first3=Brian S.|last4=Cleare|first4=Anthony J.|last5=Wessely|first5=Simon|date=2006-04-13|title=Are some people sensitive to mobile phone signals? Within participants double blind randomised provocation study|url=https://www.bmj.com/content/332/7546/886|journal=BMJ|language=en|volume=332|issue=7546|pages=886–891|doi=10.1136/bmj.38765.519850.55|issn=0959-8138|pmc=1440612|pmid=16520326}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal|last1=Wilén|first1=Jonna|last2=Johansson|first2=Amanda|last3=Kalezic|first3=Nebojsa|last4=Lyskov|first4=Eugene|last5=Sandström|first5=Monica|date=2006|title=Psychophysiological tests and provocation of subjects with mobile phone related symptoms|url=https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/bem.20195|journal=Bioelectromagnetics|language=en|volume=27|issue=3|pages=204–214|doi=10.1002/bem.20195|pmid=16304699|s2cid=39662872 |issn=1521-186X}}</ref>


==Counties inside the NRQZ==
==Counties inside the NRQZ==
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* [[Weston, West Virginia|Weston]]
* [[Weston, West Virginia|Weston]]


;Outside
===Outside===
[[Clarksburg, West Virginia]], and [[Lynchburg, Virginia]] are just outside the Quiet Zone.
[[Clarksburg, West Virginia]], and [[Lynchburg, Virginia]], are just outside the Quiet Zone.

==See also==
==See also==
* [[Radio interference]]
* [[Electromagnetic interference]]
* [[Radio silence]]
* [[Radio silence]]
* [[Cone of Silence (Get Smart)|Cone of Silence]], a fictional device from the 1960s American television series ''Get Smart''
* [[Cone of Silence (Get Smart)|Cone of Silence]], a fictional device from the 1960s American television series ''Get Smart''

==Other radio quiet zones==

* [[MeerKAT#Site]] The Radio Quiet Zone of the Northern Cape in South Africa


==References==
==References==
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==External links==
==External links==
* {{cite web|url=https://science.nrao.edu/facilities/gbt/interference-protection/nrqz/|title=National Radio Quiet Zone|publisher=National Radio Astronomy Observatory|accessdate=February 20, 2015}} - Official website
* {{cite web|url=https://info.nrao.edu/do/spectrum-management/national-radio-quiet-zone-nrqz-1|title=National Radio Quiet Zone|publisher=National Radio Astronomy Observatory|access-date=February 20, 2023}} - Official website
*[http://www.washingtonian.com/articles/people/the-town-without-wi-fi/ "The Town Without Wi-Fi"]—''[[Washingtonian (magazine)|Washingtonian]]'' (January 2015)
*[http://www.washingtonian.com/articles/people/the-town-without-wi-fi/ "The Town Without Wi-Fi"]—''[[Washingtonian (magazine)|Washingtonian]]'' (January 2015)
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQEGPATQe5s "The Town Where Wi-Fi Is Banned: The Green Bank Telescope and the Quiet Zone"] - [[YouTube]] (October 2016)
*[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQEGPATQe5s "The Town Where Wi-Fi Is Banned: The Green Bank Telescope and the Quiet Zone"] - [[YouTube]] (October 2016)
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[[Category:Communications in West Virginia]]
[[Category:Communications in West Virginia]]
[[Category:Electromagnetic compatibility]]
[[Category:Electromagnetic compatibility]]
[[Category:West Virginia media]]
[[Category:Mass media in West Virginia]]
[[Category:Radio regulations]]
[[Category:Radio regulations]]
[[Category:1958 establishments in West Virginia]]
[[Category:1958 establishments in West Virginia]]
[[Category:Communications in Virginia]]
[[Category:Mass media in Virginia]]
[[Category:1958 establishments in Virginia]]
[[Category:1958 establishments in Maryland]]
[[Category:Communications in Maryland]]
[[Category:Mass media in Maryland]]
[[Category:Garrett County, Maryland]]
[[Category:Federal Communications Commission]]
[[Category:Radio astronomy]]

Latest revision as of 20:37, 10 September 2024

38°22′30″N 79°30′00″W / 38.375°N 79.5°W / 38.375; -79.5

The NRQZ includes portions of West Virginia, Virginia, and a small part of Maryland.

The National Radio Quiet Zone (NRQZ) is a large area of land in the United States designated as a radio quiet zone, in which radio transmissions are restricted by law to facilitate scientific research and the gathering of military intelligence. About half of the zone is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of west-central Virginia while the other half is in the Allegheny Mountains of east-central West Virginia; a small part of the zone is in the southernmost tip of the Maryland panhandle.

Standort

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The Quiet Zone is an approximate rectangle of land, 107.0 miles (172.2 km) on the north edge, 109.6 miles (176.4 km) on the south edge and 120.9 miles (194.6 km) on the east and west edges, comprising approximately 13,000 square miles (34,000 km2; 8,300,000 acres). It straddles the borders of Virginia and West Virginia, and also includes a small part of Maryland. The NRQZ is centered between the Green Bank Observatory in Green Bank, West Virginia, and Sugar Grove Station in Sugar Grove, West Virginia. It includes all land with latitudes between 37° 30′ 0.4″ N and 39° 15′ 0.4″ N, and longitudes between 78° 29′ 59.0″ W and 80° 29′ 59.2″ W.[1]

Restrictions

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An older patrol truck used to locate radio interference[2].
A modern patrol truck equipped with detectors[3].

Most broadcast transmitters in the central area of the Quiet Zone are required to operate at reduced power and use directional antennas. This makes cable and satellite essential for acceptable television in much of the region. Restrictions of transmissions are strictest within ten miles (16 km) of the Green Bank and Sugar Grove facilities,[4] where most omnidirectional and high-power transmissions are prohibited.

Not all radio transmissions are prohibited in the Quiet Zone. For example, emergency service (police, fire, and ambulance) radios and CB radios are permitted. However, large transmitter owners, including television stations in the Harrisonburg-Staunton and Charlottesville markets, must coordinate their operations with the Green Bank Observatory. The only broadcast radio stations in the core of the Quiet Zone are part of the Allegheny Mountain Radio network, with one daytimer AM station in Frost, West Virginia, ten miles from the observatory, and low-powered FM stations in Monterey, Virginia and Marlinton, West Virginia. Exceptions to restrictions are usually determined on a case-by-case basis, with preference given to public safety concerns, such as remote alarm systems, repeaters for emergency services, and NOAA Weather Radio.

The most severe restrictions to the general public are imposed within a 20-mile (32 km) radius of the Green Bank Observatory.[5] The Observatory polices the area actively for devices emitting excessive electromagnetic radiation such as microwave ovens, Wi-Fi access points and faulty electrical equipment and request citizens discontinue their usage. It does not have enforcement power[6] (although the FCC can impose a fine of $50 on violators[7]), but will work with residents to find solutions.[8][9]

Cellular telephone use in the central area of the zone is also very restricted.[5]

"In Green Bank, though, the rules are even stronger, so much that some residents who are in direct sight of the radio telescope receivers, can't use Wi-Fi devices and even microwave ovens in all Green Bank Radio Astronomy housing units. Directional cellphone service areas are very limited, such as in Snowshoe Mountain Resort in nearby Snowshoe, West Virginia, one of the state's major ski areas."[10]

Zones of protection

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Warning signs at zone 1 entrance.

The Green Bank Interference Protection Group maintains policies to manage radio-frequency interference (RFI) by dividing into five zones based on available legal instruments.[11][12]

Zone 1 and Zone 2 are located within the property of the Green Bank Observatory. The entire property is designed as Zone 1 except small portions (such as housing, visitor, and laboratory areas) that are designed as Zone 2. Zone 1, also termed the Radio Astronomy Instrument Zone, restricts intentional radiators only to those are deemed essential. All unintentional radiators must be operated within the ITU-R RA.769 recommendations on protection criteria used for radio astronomical measurements. Gasoline-powered motor vehicles are prohibited in Zone 1 as their spark-ignition engines generate significant radio interference, resulting in the requirement that all vehicles and equipment be diesel-powered.[13] Zone 2, also called Observatory Building Zone, allows intentional radiators licensed by National Radio Quiet Zone, but not other radiators such as Wi-Fi, cordless phones, and other wireless equipment. Certain types of unintentional radiators are allowed. Digital cameras are prohibited, although film photography is allowed.[14]

Zone 3 and Zone 4 are governed by the Radio Astronomy Zoning Act which is the Chapter 37A of the West Virginia Code. It strictly regulates radio transmitters within 2 miles (3.2 km) and within 10 miles (16 km) of the Green Bank Observatory, respectively.[4] Within these zones, interference to observations will be identified and documented. The owners of the offending equipment will be visited personally to request cooperation in eliminating the interference. Enforcement is used as a last resort. Enforcement in Zone 4 may be more lenient than the limit set by Chapter 37A.

Zone 5 is the boundary of National Radio Quiet Zone; the National Radio Quiet Zone Administrator at the Green Bank Observatory manages the enforcement policies.

Uses

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The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) created the Quiet Zone in 1958 to protect the radio telescopes at Green Bank and Sugar Grove from harmful interference.[15] Today, the Green Bank Observatory oversees the Quiet Zone.

The Quiet Zone also protects the antennas and receivers of the U.S. Navy's Information Operations Command (NIOC) at Sugar Grove. The NIOC is the location of electronic intelligence-gathering systems, and is today said to be a key station in the ECHELON system operated by the National Security Agency (NSA).[16]

The area has also attracted people who believe they suffer from electromagnetic hypersensitivity,[17][18][14] though scientific experiments have shown this condition is caused by the nocebo effect rather than electromagnetic waves.[19][20][21]

Counties inside the NRQZ

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Maryland counties

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Virginia counties

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See also List of radio stations in Virginia, which includes several AM and FM stations within the zone.

West Virginia counties

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See also List of radio stations in West Virginia, which includes several AM and FM stations within the zone.

Cities inside the NRQZ

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Virginia cities

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West Virginia cities

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Outside

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Clarksburg, West Virginia, and Lynchburg, Virginia, are just outside the Quiet Zone.

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "National Radio Quiet Zone". National Radio Astronomy Observatory. Retrieved February 20, 2015.
  2. ^ Casto, James E. (July 9, 2014). "NRAO Vehicle Fleet". The State Journal. Retrieved October 31, 2016.
  3. ^ Bucktin, Christopher (July 28, 2015). "Telescope Town can hear to within second of the Big Bang but won't let locals use mobiles". Mirror. Retrieved October 31, 2016.
  4. ^ a b "West Virginia Code, Chapter 37A". Chuck Niday - National Radio Astronomy Observatory. Retrieved October 8, 2013.
  5. ^ a b Hu, Elise (October 8, 2013). "Enter The Quiet Zone: Where Cell Service, Wi-Fi Are Banned". National Public Radio. Retrieved October 8, 2013. To keep the zone protected from signals that could confuse the telescope, Niday and others from the NRAO drive the 20-mile radius around the Green Bank Telescope weekly, policing for possible interference.
  6. ^ Holba, Emile; Hall, Sara Jane (May 19, 2015). "The Quiet Zone: Where mobile phones are banned". BBC. Retrieved July 14, 2016.
  7. ^ "West Virginia Code, Chapter 37A". National Radio Astronomy Observatory. Retrieved July 14, 2016.
  8. ^ Sizemore, Wes; Acree, Jeff. "The National Radio Quiet Zone" (PDF). NRAO. Retrieved July 14, 2016. NRAO operates the National Radio Quiet Zone at Green Bank. We briefly outline its salient characteristics, and our experience with its day to day operation.
  9. ^ ""National Radio Quiet Zone"... (Parkersburg, Elkins: construction, living, zip code) - West Virginia (WV) - City-Data Forum". city-data.com. Retrieved July 14, 2016.
  10. ^ Sterman, Joce (June 26, 2016). "'Full Measure': The No-Fi zone". WGME. Retrieved April 21, 2017.
  11. ^ Beaudet, C.; Clark, C.; Niday, C.; Ghigo, F.; Ford, J.; McCullough, R.; Sizemore, W.; Woody, P. (January 24, 2007). The Green Bank Interference Protection Group: Policies for RFI Management (PDF) (Report).
  12. ^ "NRAO Green Bank Policies for RFI Management". Retrieved October 31, 2016.
  13. ^ "NRAO Green Bank Site RFI Regulations for Visitors" (PDF). National Radio Astronomy Observatory. p. 2. Retrieved October 14, 2016.
  14. ^ a b Winter, Damon; Kennedy, Pagan (June 21, 2019). "Opinion | The Land Where the Internet Ends". The New York Times. Retrieved April 16, 2021.
  15. ^ "National Radio Quiet Zone - National Radio Astronomy Observatory".
  16. ^ "Interception Capabilities 2000, Sugar Grove, Virginia – COMSAT interception at ECHELON site". Interception of Communications Section. Leeds, UK: Cyber-Rights & Cyber-Liberties (UK). May 11, 1999. Archived from the original on September 28, 2011. Retrieved September 14, 2011. Interception Capabilities 2000 Report to the Director General for Research of the European Parliament (Scientific and Technical Options Assessment programme office) on the development of surveillance technology and risk of abuse of economic information.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: bot: original URL status unknown (link)
  17. ^ O'Brien, Jane; Danzico, Matt (September 12, 2011). "'Wi-fi refugees' shelter in West Virginia mountains". BBC News. Retrieved September 13, 2011.
  18. ^ "The town that banned Wi-Fi". The Guardian. Retrieved June 21, 2015.
  19. ^ Regel, Sabine J.; Negovetic, Sonja; R, öösli Martin; Berdi, ñas Veronica; Schuderer, Jürgen; Huss, Anke; Lott, Urs; Kuster, Niels; Achermann, Peter (August 1, 2006). "UMTS Base Station-like Exposure, Well-Being, and Cognitive Performance". Environmental Health Perspectives. 114 (8): 1270–1275. doi:10.1289/ehp.8934. PMC 1552030. PMID 16882538.
  20. ^ Rubin, G. James; Hahn, Gareth; Everitt, Brian S.; Cleare, Anthony J.; Wessely, Simon (April 13, 2006). "Are some people sensitive to mobile phone signals? Within participants double blind randomised provocation study". BMJ. 332 (7546): 886–891. doi:10.1136/bmj.38765.519850.55. ISSN 0959-8138. PMC 1440612. PMID 16520326.
  21. ^ Wilén, Jonna; Johansson, Amanda; Kalezic, Nebojsa; Lyskov, Eugene; Sandström, Monica (2006). "Psychophysiological tests and provocation of subjects with mobile phone related symptoms". Bioelectromagnetics. 27 (3): 204–214. doi:10.1002/bem.20195. ISSN 1521-186X. PMID 16304699. S2CID 39662872.
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