Indonesian domestic communication satellite system

An overview is given of the Palapa satellite system, which will constitute the Indonesian domestic communication satellite system. It is noted that since Indonesia consists of almost 14,000 islands spread over an arc of 4800 km, a communication satellite system is the most practical way to establish a domestic communications network. The major elements of the Palapa system are described together with the satellite characteristics, antenna coverage patterns, and ground facilities. It is shown that the system will offer a comprehensive range of telecommunications services, including telephony, telegraphy, telex, data transmission, television, and radio broadcasting. Projections for expanding the system are discussed, and a brief cost analysis is presented.