Telecommunication Satellites Research Articles

STRATEGIC MARKET ENTRY DECISION-MAKING IN AFRICA'S SATELLITE SECTOR: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS USING TOPSIS AND AHP METHODS

This paper investigates the strategic decision-making process for market entry into Africa's satellite telecommunications sector using two well-established multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods: the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) and the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). Given the complex and varied nature of the African market, these methodologies are applied to evaluate multiple countries based on criteria such as market potential, regulatory compliance, and infrastructural development. By conducting a parallel analysis with TOPSIS and AHP, this study not only identifies Kenya as the most suitable market for entry but also validates the consistency and reliability of both methods in handling decision-making complexities in emerging markets. The findings highlight the importance of systematic and objective criteria evaluation in reducing uncertainty and enhancing decision quality in international business strategies. This paper contributes to the strategic management and international business literature by demonstrating the practical application and comparative effectiveness of TOPSIS and AHP in a high-stakes decision-making scenario. Keywords: Strategic Market Entry, Satellite Telecommunications, TOPSIS, Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM). Decision-Making Framework

LIO-PAY: Sustainable low-cost offline payment solution

Offline payment solutions exist today to enable customers to avail themselves of the privileges of the cashless economy. Financial inclusion is visualized as a key factor in encouraging digital transactions in rural and semi-urban regions. Recently, the Government of India, along with the Reserve Bank of India, announced a framework that allows offline payments with finite transaction limits. This aims at providing access to formal financial services in an affordable manner to deepen financial inclusion. However, the remote population rarely access their digital bank accounts due to intermittent network connectivity issues. Hence, the majority of these accounts are in a dormant state, which demeans the impact of financial inclusion. The aim of this research is to design and develop a sustainable, low-cost, highly efficient offline payment solution using a LoRa-enabled IoT ecosystem to connect with Space Information Network (SIN). A novel offline payment system is designed with features of a) recharge and b) payment with offline wallet technology, which can be availed of in the absence of Internet or telecommunication services. The proposed solution, LIO-PAY, allows merchants and end users across the ecosystem to run seamless transactions. We developed a proof of concept and tested it in a lab setup with volunteers to analyze the usability of the application for initiating transactions. We examined 46 customer-initiated transactions and found that 16 (around 34.8%) failed due to merchant data entry errors, likely typos. In a separate analysis of these transactions, 4 customers (approximately 11.5%) incorrectly entered their PIN. The average time to complete a transaction was 35.42 s. Bringing satellite payments to life faces hurdles but holds immense promise for the unbanked. Getting the green light from banking authorities and the satellite network provider is no easy feat. Even if approved, launching a whole new satellite network just for low-value transactions might be too expensive. A more realistic approach could be using existing telecom satellites to bounce transaction data to banks. Regulatory approval is needed from both banking authorities and the satellite network provider. Hence, we simulated the SIN environment with seven LEO (Low Earth Orbit) satellites using the Matlab tool. These simulations revealed a transmission time range of 2 min to 1 h, indicating a reasonable timeframe for delivering information to a ground station via SIN. Despite terrestrial networks expanding their reach, satellite-based solutions hold promise for areas with no or weak internet connectivity. This becomes even more attractive if launch costs go down or if banking authorities help subsidize the service to bring financial inclusion to remote regions. Thus, we hope this approach may help researchers and policymakers visualize the possibilities of bridging the gap in financial inclusion.

Architecting CubeSat constellations for messaging service, Part I

In today’s modern and globalized world, connectivity is a key factor for businesses, production facilities, sensor networks, and ordinary people. However, there are still populated areas which are not covered by ground-based telecommunications infrastructure. This is where telecommunication satellite constellations come in, as they can provide coverage to remote and uninhabited regions and fill existing connectivity gaps to ensure data transfer.LoRa is one of the technologies designed for data transmissions over long distances with low power consumption. Alongside with other technologies of the Low-Power Wide Area Network family, it is widely used for Internet of Things applications. LoRa chirp spread spectrum modulation is robust against the Doppler frequency shifts encountered in low earth orbits, and it has already been used in IoT satellite communications. Due to the low transmitted signal power, the achieved data rate is not high, making it a suitable technology for telecommunications payloads on CubeSat platforms for messaging services. As compared to existing traditional communication satellite systems, CubeSat constellations are low-cost and may offer an affordable connectivity service to developing regions.This study is divided in two parts. In Part I the demand model is built based on the population distribution not covered by cell towers. The LoRa link performance is analyzed, considering the impact of LoRa channel parameters variation, such as spreading factor and channel bandwidth, while satellite orbital height, transmission antenna beamwidth, and transmitter peak power have a direct impact on the payload mass. Among thousands of possible configurations, 73 feasible payload designs have been downselected. In Part II of the study, the satellite mass and the total system cost are estimated based on the payload parameters obtained. Messages transmission simulation via a constellation is conducted in order to identify optimal constellation architectures for messaging service, as well as the main drivers of the system economic profitability.The presented analysis results provide a deeper understanding of LoRa connectivity advantages and limitations together with the performance drivers, which will support the optimization of future LoRa-based satellite communication systems and other IoT satellite constellations.

Applications of 3D printing and digital transformation in aerospace engineering and telecommunication technologies

The aim of the development is to present the overall process of building functional prototypes for the purposes of aerospace engineering and telecommunication technologies, based on specific examples from the author's scientific and practical work. The scientific-applied contribution of the research is expressed in the correct selection and comparative analysis of compatible software products and devices for 3D modeling, digital transformation and 3D printing of objects from the space infrastructure and. in particular, of radio technical devices as key components of telecommunication satellites. The presented practical results are in the form of a final product that, if the criteria for precise modeling and the selection of a suitable material for 3D printing are met, can satisfy the quality criteria of the relevant industry for which it is intended.

International alliances and technology diffusion: A worldwide analysis of adoption of energy, railway and satellite technologies

This study analyzes the role of international alliances in the adoption of new technology at the national level. We look at the worldwide diffusion of six key infrastructure technologies during the past six decades among 161 countries: nuclear power, solar power, wind power, marine power, high-speed rail, and telecommunication satellites. Acknowledging that international relations are not solely structured by formal alliances, we further investigate the impact of neighboring states on technology diffusion, as neighbors tend to maintain strong economic and cultural ties. We further look at simple imitation effects between states with similar political systems. With our focus on international alliances as drivers of international technology diffusion, our study complements economic studies on technology diffusion. For most of the technologies, we find evidence for spillovers between allied states as well as between neighboring states, while no such evidence was found for institutionally similar states. These results confirm the important role that international alliances may play in technology diffusion.

An Efficient Design for the DVB-S2 Forward Link System Outer Layer Encoding Based on PCC Turbo Coding Across Fading Channel

The most significant challenges wireless broadcasting systems face are channel effects and Inter Symbol Interference (ISI). Many different kinds of channel coding are employed to get around these issues. Digital Video Broadcasting for Satellite Telecommunication Second Generation (DVB-S2) uses a serial concatenation of Bose, Ray-Chaudhuri, and Hocquenghem (BCH) code and Low-Density Parity-Check (LDPC) code as a Forward Error Correction (FEC) for error detection purpose and correction. In this work, a MATLAB code (m-files) is constructed to simulate the standard DVB-S2 Bit-Interleaved Coded Modulation (BICM) system according to the ETSI Technical Report (EN 302 307 1). Then, the traditional design is redesigned with a Parallel Concatenation Convolutional (PCC) Turbo coding in concatenation with LDPC coding to enhance the (FEC). The two approaches have been tested under the official modulation types QPSK, 8PSK, 16APSK, and 32APSK with 2/3, 3/4, 3/5, 4/5, and 5/6 code rates (RC). Over a Rayleigh Fading channel, the two models are compared. The proposed model performed better than the standard model regarding bit error rate (BER) mitigation when operating at varying signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) levels, especially in 8PSK 3/5 MODCODE. The proposed model achieved (2.6272×10-3) BER mitigation value with power gain equal to 4 dB.

A comprehensive review of strategic management practices in satellite telecommunications, highlighting the role of data analytics in driving operational efficiency and competitive advantage

Satellite telecommunications play a crucial role in modern connectivity, enabling global communication, broadcasting, and internet access. This paper presents a comprehensive review of strategic management practices in the satellite telecommunications industry, with a particular focus on the role of data analytics in enhancing operational efficiency and achieving competitive advantage. The satellite telecommunications sector is characterized by rapid technological advancements, evolving market dynamics, and increasing demand for bandwidth-intensive services. To thrive in this competitive landscape, companies in the industry must adopt strategic management practices that enable them to effectively leverage their resources, capabilities, and market opportunities. One of the key strategic management practices in satellite telecommunications is the integration of data analytics into business operations. Data analytics encompasses the collection, analysis, and interpretation of large volumes of data to extract valuable insights and inform decision-making. By harnessing the power of data analytics, satellite telecommunications companies can optimize their network performance, enhance customer experience, and drive innovation. Data analytics can also help companies in the satellite telecommunications industry to identify new market trends, customer preferences, and competitive threats. By analyzing data from various sources, including satellite sensors, customer feedback, and market research, companies can gain a deeper understanding of their operating environment and make informed strategic decisions. Furthermore, data analytics can enable satellite telecommunications companies to enhance their operational efficiency by optimizing resource allocation, minimizing downtime, and improving network reliability. By using predictive analytics, companies can anticipate equipment failures and proactively address potential issues, thereby reducing maintenance costs and improving service quality. In conclusion, this paper highlights the importance of strategic management practices in the satellite telecommunications industry, with a focus on the role of data analytics in driving operational efficiency and competitive advantage. By adopting data-driven decision-making processes, satellite telecommunications companies can position themselves for long-term success in a rapidly evolving industry landscape.

Reviewing the application of big data analytics in satellite network management to optimize performance and enhance reliability, with implications for future technology developments

The application of big data analytics in satellite network management has emerged as a transformative approach to optimize performance and enhance reliability in the satellite telecommunications industry. This paper reviews the current state of big data analytics in satellite network management, highlighting its key applications and benefits. By analyzing large volumes of data generated by satellite networks, big data analytics enables satellite telecommunications companies to gain valuable insights into network performance, identify potential issues, and take proactive measures to ensure optimal performance. One of the key applications of big data analytics in satellite network management is predictive maintenance. By analyzing historical data and equipment performance metrics, companies can predict when equipment is likely to fail and take preventive measures to avoid downtime. This not only improves network reliability but also reduces maintenance costs and improves overall operational efficiency. Another important application is network optimization. Big data analytics can analyze network traffic, weather conditions, and other factors to optimize satellite beam coverage, frequency allocation, and routing. This helps companies maximize bandwidth utilization, reduce interference, and improve service quality. The implications of big data analytics for future technology developments in satellite network management are significant. As the volume of data generated by satellite networks continues to grow, there is a need for advanced analytics tools and techniques to process and analyze this data efficiently. Future technology developments in areas such as AI, machine learning, and data visualization are expected to play a key role in enhancing the capabilities of big data analytics in satellite network management. In conclusion, the application of big data analytics in satellite network management offers significant benefits in terms of optimizing performance and enhancing reliability. By leveraging the insights provided by big data analytics, satellite telecommunications companies can improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and deliver better services to their customers. Future technology developments will further enhance the capabilities of big data analytics, paving the way for more efficient and reliable satellite network management.

SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS MODELS IN SATELLITE TELECOMMUNICATIONS

Sustainable business models in satellite telecommunications represent a critical paradigm shift in the industry, integrating environmental, social, and economic dimensions into operations. This review explores the evolving landscape of sustainable practices within satellite telecommunications, addressing the pressing need for eco-conscious strategies in an era of accelerating technological advancement. The burgeoning demand for satellite telecommunications services, driven by global connectivity needs, underscores the significance of sustainability in the industry. Traditional business models have often prioritized profit margins over environmental and social impacts. However, emerging trends emphasize the adoption of sustainable practices to mitigate carbon footprints, reduce electronic waste, and promote equitable access to communication services. Innovations in satellite technology, such as the development of small satellites and advancements in propulsion systems, offer opportunities to enhance sustainability. Miniaturization of satellites decreases launch mass, leading to reduced fuel consumption and lower emissions. Additionally, advancements in electric propulsion systems contribute to fuel efficiency and prolong satellite lifespan, thereby reducing space debris. Furthermore, sustainable business models in satellite telecommunications encompass social responsibility initiatives aimed at bridging the digital divide. Collaborative efforts between satellite operators, governments, and non-profit organizations facilitate the provision of affordable and accessible connectivity to underserved regions, fostering socio-economic development and empowering marginalized communities. The integration of sustainability into satellite telecommunications business models not only aligns with environmental and social imperatives but also presents economic benefits. Cost efficiencies realized through fuel savings, extended satellite lifespan, and market expansion in underserved regions enhance long-term profitability and resilience in a competitive industry landscape. The transition towards sustainable business models in satellite telecommunications represents a pivotal evolution towards a more responsible and inclusive industry, balancing profitability with environmental stewardship and social equity.
 Keywords: Business, Models, Satellite, Telecommunication, Sustainable, Review.

THE EVOLUTION OF QUALITY ASSURANCE AND SERVICE IMPROVEMENT IN SATELLITE TELECOMMUNICATIONS THROUGH ANALYTICS: A REVIEW OF INITIATIVES AND THEIR IMPACTS

Satellite telecommunications have undergone significant evolution, driven by the need for enhanced quality assurance and service improvement. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the initiatives undertaken in this field, focusing on the integration of analytics to achieve these objectives. Over the years, advancements in satellite technology have enabled the collection of vast amounts of data, presenting both challenges and opportunities. Leveraging analytics has emerged as a crucial strategy to extract actionable insights from this data, thereby enhancing quality assurance and service delivery. The review encompasses various aspects of quality assurance and service improvement in satellite telecommunications, including network performance monitoring, fault detection and resolution, capacity planning, and customer experience management. It examines how analytics techniques such as machine learning, predictive modeling, and anomaly detection have been applied to address specific challenges within each of these domains. Furthermore, the paper evaluates the impacts of these initiatives on the satellite telecommunications industry. By leveraging analytics, stakeholders have been able to optimize network operations, minimize downtime, and proactively address potential issues before they escalate. Additionally, improved service quality has led to enhanced customer satisfaction and retention, driving business growth and competitiveness in the market. Overall, this review underscores the transformative role of analytics in advancing quality assurance and service improvement in satellite telecommunications. It highlights the importance of continued innovation and investment in analytics-driven solutions to meet the evolving demands of the industry and deliver superior experiences to end-users.
 Keywords: Assurance, Analytics, Satellite, Telecommunication, Impacts, Review.

PREDICTIVE ANALYTICS IN THE MAINTENANCE AND RELIABILITY OF SATELLITE TELECOMMUNICATIONS INFRASTRUCTURE: A CONCEPTUAL REVIEW OF STRATEGIES AND TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENTS

Predictive analytics is transforming the maintenance and reliability of satellite telecommunications infrastructure, offering proactive solutions to prevent downtime and enhance operational efficiency. This conceptual review explores key strategies and technological advancements driving the adoption of predictive analytics in this field. The integration of IoT devices and sensors enables real-time monitoring, providing valuable data on equipment performance and environmental conditions. Advanced algorithms, such as AI and ML, analyze this data to predict equipment failures and optimize maintenance schedules. These technologies improve the accuracy of predictive models, allowing companies to reduce downtime and improve overall infrastructure reliability. Challenges include data privacy and security concerns, as well as the integration of predictive analytics into existing maintenance processes. Companies must invest in specialized skills and expertise to implement predictive analytics successfully. Looking ahead, emerging technologies like real-time analytics and AI will continue to shape the future of predictive analytics in satellite telecommunications. Standardized practices, collaboration with industry partners, and a focus on data quality are essential for companies to harness the full potential of predictive analytics. In conclusion, predictive analytics is a game-changer for the maintenance and reliability of satellite telecommunications infrastructure. By adopting predictive analytics, companies can optimize maintenance processes, reduce downtime, and improve overall infrastructure reliability.
 Keywords: Predictive Analytics, Infrastructure, Telecommunications, Satellite, Reliability.

CYBERSECURITY ANALYTICS IN PROTECTING SATELLITE TELECOMMUNICATIONS NETWORKS: A CONCEPTUAL DEVELOPMENT OF CURRENT TRENDS, CHALLENGES, AND STRATEGIC RESPONSES

Cybersecurity is a critical concern in satellite telecommunications networks, given their vulnerability to cyber threats. This abstract presents a conceptual development of current trends, challenges, and strategic responses in using cybersecurity analytics to protect these networks. The paper discusses the increasing reliance on satellite telecommunications, making them attractive targets for cyber attacks. It explores the role of cybersecurity analytics in detecting and mitigating these threats, highlighting the importance of proactive monitoring and threat intelligence. Challenges in cybersecurity analytics for satellite networks are identified, including the complexity of satellite systems, the limited visibility into network traffic, and the evolving nature of cyber threats. The paper discusses strategic responses to these challenges, such as the use of advanced analytics techniques, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to enhance threat detection and response capabilities. Key trends in cybersecurity analytics for satellite networks are examined, including the growing adoption of cloud-based security solutions, the rise of insider threats, and the need for collaboration between satellite operators and cybersecurity experts. The paper also discusses the importance of regulatory compliance and the role of industry standards in ensuring the security of satellite networks. In conclusion, the paper emphasizes the importance of cybersecurity analytics in protecting satellite telecommunications networks and recommends a proactive approach to cybersecurity that includes continuous monitoring, threat intelligence sharing, and collaboration with cybersecurity experts.
 Keywords: Cybersecurity, Analytics, Satellite, Telecommunications, Conceptual Development.

ENHANCING CUSTOMER SERVICE IN SATELLITE TELECOMMUNICATIONS: A REVIEW OF DATA-DRIVEN INSIGHTS AND METHODOLOGIES FOR PERSONALIZED SERVICE OFFERINGS

Enhancing customer service in satellite telecommunications is a critical focus area for companies seeking to differentiate themselves in a competitive market. This Review reviews data-driven insights and methodologies aimed at delivering personalized service offerings to satellite telecommunications customers. Personalized service offerings leverage data analytics to tailor services to individual customer needs and preferences. By analyzing customer data, such as usage patterns, service history, and feedback, satellite telecommunications companies can gain valuable insights into customer behavior and preferences. These insights enable companies to offer customized services that meet the specific needs of each customer. Data-driven insights play a crucial role in enhancing customer service in satellite telecommunications. By analyzing customer data, companies can identify trends and patterns that help them understand customer needs and preferences better. This understanding enables companies to develop personalized service offerings that resonate with customers and drive customer satisfaction and loyalty. Methodologies for delivering personalized service offerings in satellite telecommunications include predictive analytics, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. Predictive analytics enables companies to forecast customer behavior and anticipate future needs, allowing them to proactively address customer needs. Machine learning algorithms can analyze large volumes of customer data to identify patterns and trends that would be difficult for humans to detect. Artificial intelligence can enhance customer service by enabling companies to automate processes and provide personalized recommendations to customers. In conclusion, enhancing customer service in satellite telecommunications requires a data-driven approach that leverages insights and methodologies to deliver personalized service offerings. By analyzing customer data and using advanced analytics and AI technologies, satellite telecommunications companies can tailor services to individual customer needs and preferences, driving customer satisfaction and loyalty.
 Keywords: Customer Service, Satellite, Telecommunications, Data-driven, Service Offerings.

MARKET EXPANSION AND COMPETITIVE POSITIONING IN SATELLITE TELECOMMUNICATIONS: A REVIEW OF ANALYTICS-DRIVEN STRATEGIES WITHIN THE GLOBAL LANDSCAPE

Market expansion and competitive positioning are paramount in the dynamic landscape of satellite telecommunications. This review explores the role of analytics-driven strategies in achieving these objectives on a global scale. Satellite telecommunications providers face intense competition, technological advancements, and evolving customer expectations, necessitating innovative approaches to gain a competitive edge. Analytics plays a crucial role in understanding market trends, consumer behavior, and competitor strategies. By leveraging advanced analytics techniques, companies can uncover actionable insights to inform strategic decision-making. One key area where analytics is instrumental is in identifying untapped market opportunities. Through data analysis, companies can pinpoint underserved regions or niche markets, enabling targeted expansion efforts. Moreover, analytics enables companies to optimize their service offerings and pricing strategies. By analyzing customer preferences, usage patterns, and market dynamics, companies can tailor their offerings to meet specific customer needs. This personalized approach not only enhances customer satisfaction but also improves profitability. Analytics also plays a vital role in enhancing operational efficiency. By analyzing data from satellite networks, companies can identify potential bottlenecks, optimize resource allocation, and improve overall network performance. This not only reduces operational costs but also enhances service reliability and quality. Furthermore, analytics-driven strategies are instrumental in competitive positioning. By analyzing competitor performance, market trends, and customer feedback, companies can identify areas where they can differentiate themselves. This could include offering innovative services, improving customer support, or enhancing network coverage. In conclusion, analytics-driven strategies are crucial for satellite telecommunications companies looking to expand their market presence and enhance their competitive positioning. By leveraging data analytics, companies can uncover valuable insights that inform strategic decision-making, optimize operations, and drive innovation. In an increasingly competitive landscape, the ability to harness the power of analytics is key to long-term success in the satellite telecommunications industry.
 Keywords: Market Expansion, Competitive, Positioning, Satellite, Communications.

Arbitration as the Dispute Settlement Method to Address Harmful Interference in the Age of Mega-Constellations of Satellites

The increasing demand for radio frequency spectrum usage for the launch of mega-constellations of telecommunication satellites will potentially increase incidents of harmful interference to radiocommunication. International law has yet to regulate a compulsory method of dispute settlement for harmful interference disputes. Currently, most cases of harmful interference are solved through technical and political means. However, those methods cannot address damage claims that may be caused by harmful interference, which may become increasingly common with the growing participation of private entities. Article 56 of the ITU Constitution has regulated several dispute resolution methods related to telecommunications, namely negotiation, diplomatic channels, other methods mutually agreed upon by the parties, and arbitration. This study aims to analyze these methods of dispute settlement and determine the most appropriate method to address harmful interference disputes. As the diplomatic dispute settlement methods do not result in enforceable legally binding decisions, this study argues that arbitration is the most appropriate method to settle disputes concerning harmful interference because it offers more neutrality in its proceedings and the confidentiality of sensitive information. It may also decide on damages as part of the arbitral award. Arbitration awards are final and binding, thus offering legal certainty to the parties to the dispute. States have generally recognized arbitration awards and created mechanisms to enforce arbitral awards. This study also recommends that the ITU implement compulsory arbitration with limitations and create a harm-claim threshold.

EO Satellite Data Management and Privacy Law

The relevance of the space sector is increasing, with reference not only to the traditional telecommunications satellites but also to Earth Observation satellites, equipped with increasingly sophisticated electro-optical, radar and spectrographic payloads capable of collecting increasingly precise and well defined data. This space race sees the participation above all of private entities that carry out extensive data collection, with the sole aim of making it profitable. In this light, the aim of the paper is to specifically analyze the issue of personal data processing, also with regard to the latest advances in the field of sensors and access to space.

System design study of a VLEO satellite platform using the IRS RF helicon-based plasma thruster

To achieve a feasible lifetime of several years, most satellites are deployed in orbits higher than 400 km. Drag of residual atmosphere causes a slow orbit decay, resulting in the deorbit of the spacecraft. However, e.g. optical instruments or communication devices would significantly benefit from lower altitudes in the range of 150–250 km. A solution to achieve this could be the application of atmosphere-breathing electric propulsion (ABEP), where the residual atmosphere is used to generate continuous thrust that compensates the drag.Within the EU-funded DISCOVERER project, the Institute of Space Systems (IRS) developed an electrode-less RF Helicon-based Plasma Thruster (IPT) suitable for such applications. Ignition and preliminary discharge characterizations of the IPT have been carried out at IRS facilities, using argon, nitrogen and oxygen. To further characterize the plasma plume, a torsional pendulum has been designed to determine the (local) momentum flux in the plasma jet, as well as a three-axis magnetic B-dot probe to carry out time-varying magnetic field measurements. Various intake designs were investigated, opening the possibility to conduct studies on potential satellite platforms within the frame of the ESA-funded project RAM-CLEP.A design study for an Earth Observation and Telecommunication satellite operating at 150–250 km with an extended mission lifetime is currently being carried out. The first system assessment focused on the comparison of different spacecraft configurations (“slender body” and “flat body”) and intake designs (specular or diffuse) with regard to overall drag and ABEP performance requirements.In this contribution, the design approaches for the current thruster and the diagnostic methods are depicted. Moreover, the current status of the system assessment is presented. Upcoming experimental studies of the ABEP system e.g. within the ESA-project RAM-CLEP and additional activities planned on system assessment are outlined.

Exploring the Potential of V-Band for Satellite Communications

The current development in the scientific field indicates the ability to use v band in satellite communication. “This enhancement will enable the capacity of communication in GEO satellite system to be settled than before. During the last years, researches in geostationary telecommunication satellite systems had focused on the ability of satellite coverage for a wide area within broad banding context. This view had been changed under current investigations. Extended geostationary views in satellites had been challenged to remain able in the competitive context. This was due to its capacity, costs and supported services. The current situation showed its limited capacity, availability, flexibility, and inability to guarantee the required quality of service efficiently. These limitations expected to be resulted from the effects of radio-wave broadcast in atmospheric last layer. Lastly, “the attenuation and scintillation effects of atmospheric gas, clouds and rain become more severe by increasing the operating frequency.

IMPROVEMENT OF THE METHODOLOGY FOR EVALUATING THE CARRIER FREQUENCY OF THE SIGNAL DURING DATA TRANSMISSION IN TELECOMMUNICATION CONTROL AND DISTANCE LEARNING SYSTEMS

Effectiveness of the application of telecommunications systems is directly influenced by the effectiveness of the functioning of each component and device of its design. The article directly examines the issue of improving the carrier frequency estimation methodology for data transmission in telecommunication management and distance learning systems. The essence of the solution lies in proposals for improving the efficiency of frequency estimation at the input signal synchronization stage, which is presented on the example of a satellite telecommunication control system and distance learning. Namely, the analysis of modern satellite telecommunications systems was carried out and the features that affect the effectiveness of carrier frequency estimation and input signal synchronization were determined. The main inconsistencies are the low energy of the input signal receiving channel, significant signal frequency uncertainty, and the presence of "neighboring channels" receiving the input signal. It was determined that satellite communication systems during data transmission work in the mode with multi-station access in the variant of operation with frequency division of channels, which can receive data packets in the mode of multiple access or when providing a data reception channel on demand. At the same time, the operation of telecommunications systems can proceed both in continuous and in batch modes of receiving the input signal. It is considered that coherent processing of the input signal is carried out in demodulators of satellite telecommunications and interference-resistant coding is used. To solve the task of estimating the carrier frequency of the input signal in coherent demodulators of modern satellite telecommunications, considering the above-defined inconsistencies and features, the article proposes a methodical approach. The essence of this approach is to determine the potential boundary of variances of the obtained estimates of the carrier frequency and to develop algorithms for estimating the carrier frequency of the input signal separately for continuous and batch modes of input data transmission based on the fast Fourier transform. Keywords: Frequency, signal, uncertainty, carrier, estimation.

Beyond Sputnik and the Space Race: The Origins of Global Satellite Communications by Hugh R. Slotten

Reviewed by: Beyond Sputnik and the Space Race: The Origins of Global Satellite Communications by Hugh R. Slotten Roger D. Launius (bio) Beyond Sputnik and the Space Race: The Origins of Global Satellite Communications By Hugh R. Slotten. Baltimore: Johns Hopkins University Press, 2022. Pp. 245. NASA Administrator James E. Webb asked a pointed question in 1964: "How did we get so much communication satellite technology for so little money?" Webb's question could not be satisfactorily answered at the time; this important new book offers the best explanation yet. Beyond Sputnik and the Space Race explores how government and industry shaped policy, expanded capabilities, [End Page 630] and used this envisioned space-based telecommunications capability to propound the American way to the peoples of other nations, as well as to enhance American commercial profitmaking at the same time that it facilitated American geopolitical ends in the American-Soviet Cold War. Sometimes these objectives clashed, most of the time they coexisted, and, as Hugh Slotten demonstrates, more often than not the various actors agreed on a solution beneficial to all. Slotten's focus on the nexus between government and industry in the building of an entirely new space-based communications system in the 1960s revectors the time-worn story of Cold War space rivalries between the United States and the Soviet Union. Instead of NASA and the race to the moon, Slotten uses the creation of a system of global communications with space-based components as a study of something equally critical to America's Cold War objectives: the soft power of technological verisimilitude that could help sway nonaligned—and especially emerging—nations to the American side of the global conflict. Like so many other "hearts and minds" efforts by the superpowers in the Cold War, the establishment of a worldwide satellite communications network represented war by another means, but one in which no one died—at least not intentionally. Appropriately, Slotten makes clear that satellite communications was the first truly commercial space technology developed in the first fifty years of the space age, generating billions of dollars annually in sales. His first chapter relates the efforts of John R. Pierce at AT&T's Bell Labs, who argued before Sputnik that a space communications system could be worth billions and could ensure AT&T's primacy as a communications company. At Pierce's insistence, AT&T filed in 1960 for permission to launch an experimental communications satellite. Although embraced by the Eisenhower administration, when Kennedy became president in January 1961, this decision made some senior officials wince. They opposed AT&T's seeking to extend its telephone monopoly into the "new high ground" of space. They also saw the opportunity to use this as a powerful nonmilitary means of persuading other nations to ally with the United States against the Soviet Union. The Kennedy administration sponsored the Communications Satellite Act of 1962, authorizing the public-private COMSAT Corporation to oversee the development and operation of an international communications satellite system. Slotten offers an in-depth account of how the COMSAT Corp. became the primary actor in the establishment of the International Telecommunication Satellite Consortium (INTELSAT), which brokered international agreements and oversaw the development of Intelsat 1 in 1965, the first satellite pioneering a global space-based communications network. With this satellite system in orbit, the world became a far different place. There is no question, and Slotten emphasizes this in his final chapters, that communications satellites helped to shape the course of the Cold War. Many nations wanted to be part of the system, and the building of Earth stations to [End Page 631] communicate through the satellites to other stations was cause for celebration in many regions of the world. Within a few years, telephone circuits increased from five hundred to thousands, and live television coverage of events anywhere in the world became commonplace. With this, one could make the case that the most notable change to the life of the ordinary Earthling coming from our ability to fly in space was global instantaneous telecommunications. Slotten ably examines how this first constellation of communications satellites came to be and offers a compelling argument for their importance as a...