def detbg(area, band):
    """
    Nominal background in counts per second per 1.5" pixel.
        See: http://asd.gsfc.nasa.gov/archive/galex/FAQ/counts_background.html

    :param area: The area to calculate the background in square degrees.

    :type area: float

    :param band: The band to use, either 'FUV' or 'NUV'.

    :type band: str

    :returns: float -- The nominal background for the given band, in counts per
        second.
    """
    rate = 0.0001 if band == 'FUV' else 0.001
    return area * rate / (1.5 / (60 * 60)) ** 2.0
