Satellite Communications Going Forward

About this course:

The post Starlink era began when the satellite communications industry realized that the established technical and business models no longer applied. The mainstay had always been GEO satellite platforms that evolved over a period of 60 years. The physics that made this possible have not changed and key lessons learned both in space and on the ground cannot be lost. We must understand where we are in terms of the Starlink model of using large LEO constellations that establish broadband connectivity throughout the globe. UCLA has in the past addressed non-GEO constellations like the 66 polar satellites of Iridium, which started narrowband voice service in 1998, along with O3b, a MEO constellation of 12 large satellites that has been with us for over ten years. But these pale in comparison to constellations that measure in the thousands that have the ability to nearly assure 100% coverage with data rates in the hundreds of Mbps. Consumers now have more choice and can depend on having a broadband connection wherever they are on land, in the air and at sea. Organizations face challenges as to what platform or orbit, and what organization to put their future with. All three orbit domains will be with us for a considerable time, and none offer a universal service for all possible users, giving rise to the question of multi-orbit operation. Add to this the potential of a direct satellite link to personal device, e.g., the smart phone. With this background, this course takes a system view to review key issues and the players in GEO and non-GEO who offer services and equipment. The course is intended for practicing engineers and managers across the spectrum of technologies and practices within its structure. Bruce Elbert has contributed throughout this long history and can share viewpoints and concepts that afford clarity and relevance with respect to satellite communications going forward.