Satellite Communications (SpringerBriefs in Space Development)

The field of satellite communications represents the world's largest space industry. Those who are interested in space need to understand the fundamentals of satellite communications, its technology, operation, business, economic, and regulatory aspects. This book explains all this along with key insights into the field's future growth trends and current strategic challenges. Fundamentals of Satellite Communications is a concise book that gives all of the key facts and figures as well as a strategic view of where this dynamic industry is going. Author Joseph N. Pelton, PhD, former Dean of the International Space University and former Director of Strategic Policy at Intelstat, presents a readable book about the entire essence of the satellite communication field. Front Matter....Pages i-vii Introduction to Satellite Communications....Pages 1-3 Orbits, Services and Systems....Pages 5-17 Overview of Communications Satellite Technology and Operation....Pages 19-35 The Design, Engineering, Manufacture, and Operation of a Communications Satellite....Pages 37-61 Earth Stations, Antennas and User Devices....Pages 63-73 Satellite Deployment, Station-Keeping and Related Insurance Coverage....Pages 75-83 Key Business, Trade and Regulatory Issues....Pages 85-94 The Future of Communications Satellites....Pages 95-104 Top Ten Things to Know about Satellite Communications....Pages 105-114 Back Matter....Pages 115-126