The application of SON algorithms for automating the processes of operating fourth-generation mobile networks based on the networks of operation, administration and management of OAM (Operation and Maintenance) is considered. The features of the tasks at the stages of self-optimization and self-configuration of the network for the various stages of 4G mobile network life cycle are shown. Criteria and approaches to assessing the effectiveness of solving problems by the SON network are proposed. The technical requirements are also formulated for SON algorithms. The experimentally achieved values of the selected performance exponents depending on the duration of the test cluster self-optimization time of the 4G network are shown.

The 8.025–8.400 GHz band is one of the key X-band downlink ranges for modern Earth observation satellites, enabling high-rate transmission of imagery and sensor data for agriculture, environmental monitoring, greenhouse gas assessment, disaster response and security-related applications. The potential introduction of 5G networks into this band raises serious concerns about harmful interference to Earth observation ground stations cand, consequently, about the continuity and growth of the global Earth observation data chain. This paper investigates the feasibility of sharing this downlink band between Earth observation systems and 5G networks using a Monte Carlo simulation framework. The model includes a low-Earth-orbit Earth observation satellite with dynamically tracking ground stations and dense urban, suburban and rural deployments of 5G base stations and user devices, together with established radio-propagation and clutter models and representative protection objectives for satellite downlinks. The results suggest that, to keep interference at acceptable levels, ground stations would need to be located far from 5G deployments, which is difficult to achieve in practice and could seriously limit the future expansion of Earth observation infrastructure.