Some radio astronomers may have felt that they were entitled to 24 hours a day, but I'm happy that both sides could agree to eight. The agreement should help radio astronomy and communications' use of the spectrum to coexist productively. But careful protection of the radio spectrum is absolutely essential to use the telescope to its fullest potential. The protected time period of astronomical observation will span the period from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., Eastern time. The agreement also specifies that radio astronomers may be allotted protected slots at other times of the day if special scientific opportunities arise.
Radio interference remains an ongoing and increasing threat to astronomy.
It's vital to protect access to these very faint whispers of natural radiation that tell us so much about the universe.