The ESA advanced technology development programme for future telecommunication satellite platforms

Following the completion of the development of OTS, the forerunner of the first European operational telecommunications satellite series the European Space Agency has started an Advanced Systems and Technology Programme (ASTP), aiming at the system and technology preparation of future telecommunication satellites. A brief description is given of the possible evolution of the fixed, mobile and broadcasting services and of the salient points of the associated spacecraft. The contents of the ASTP in respect of the service platform aspects of the future communication satellites is outlined as well as the development objectives related to the mechanical aspects of the future telecommunication antennas. The evolving nature of the ASTP is stressed. The more political aspects of the ASTP are not touched; instead the reader is referred to a recent relevant publication.