a limited natural resource. Experiments have been conducted for many years to determine how best to use the radio spectrum, including a 28 determination of "the minimum angle of separation possible." Smith has observed that "as with other problems of this type, the technical solution to the problem of over-crowding of orbital positions will only prove effective to the extent that a political accord has been reached." In analyzing the assessments that have been made as to the number of orbital positions, it should be kept in mind that the effective use of such positions is more important than the specific number of positions. Such positions can be extended in a practical sense through allocating additional frequencies and installing more broadcast capabilities on each space object. Each broadcast can be focused on a relatively limited area so as to avoid harmful interference. With the installation of a second satellite system frequencies could be reversed so that a higher frequency band could be employed for up-links and a lower frequency for down-links. Present technology allows for enlargement of broadcast capabilities through antenna polarization, variable types and degrees of modulation, and establishing lower standards for noise without violating harmful interference expectations. While, from the scientific and technological perspective, it "seems likely that the spectrum/orbit resources are potentially adequate to meet almost any demand at present conceivable," this position has not obtained universal international acceptance. Evidence of the unresolved issue of the number of effective D. D. Smith, International Telecommunications Control 161 (1969). Ibid. A. Chayes and Others, Satellite Broadcasting 17 (1973).
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