Technology and economics of space and surface telecommunications systems

Progress in both 'wired' and 'wireless' communication systems has taken place through the use of higher frequencies, providing the bandwidth needed to handle ever-increasing rates of transmission. After a review of these general advances and of surface communication techniques, the paper discusses space communications. Satellite communications is assessed in terms of the achievements of the past 15 years. Trends in satellite design, earth station design, and transmission system planning are presented as interacting elements. Finally, future projections are presented in terms of a specific formulation of earth and space segment costs.