The future for communication satellites of the PAM-D/half Ariane class

The underpinnings of the current orders for 50 communications satellites, to be manufactured by four companies, are examined, with attention given to future progress in communications satellites. Existing launch services include the Delta 3920 (PAM-D kick stage, 1247 kg), the Shuttle and a PAM-D (1247 kg), and the Ariane 3/Sylda (two 1195 kg packages). Half the satellite mass will be filled with propellant. The Delta class vehicle has a usable 2.18 m diameter space for the spacecraft, the Orbiter has 4.5 m, while the Ariane 3/Sylda has 2.8 m. Some detail is provided of the standard capabilities of the buses produced by the four manufacturers in terms of the masses, size, frequencies, active channels, and projected lifetimes. Future markets are foreseen in 20/30 GHz point to point communications, DBS television systems, and medium class Intelsats.