Satellite systems requirements for land mobile communications

The system design objective is to provide a satellite link through a gateway station, connecting mobile users in areas not served by a terrestrial cellular system to the switched telephone network (STN). The proposed frequency allocation comprises a pair of 10-MHz bands in the 806-890 MHz range specified by the 1979 World Administrative Radio Conference (WARC) for land-mobile satellite service (LMSS). The satellite design is constrained by projected STS capability with an upper stage of the wide-body Centaur or Integral Propulsion System (IPS) type. For the latter (a TRW design), the payload is limited to approximately 10,400 lb. The design is to be based on 1990's technology, with initial operating capability scheduled for 1995. The satellite should be designed for a 7-year life. Mobile-unit compatibility with cellular system specifications is desirable, if consistent with other system requirements.