Optimization of a high capacity communication satellite for Europe

ESA has undertaken an investigation of novel technologies for high capacity satellites which covers prospects for overall system cost minimization, the adaptation of multibeam coverage to nonuniform European traffic, and transmission capacities of the order of one thousand 8-Mbit/sec channels. Attention is given to the 20 and 30 GHz bands. The system parameters chosen correspond to those of the TDMA configuration, which appears to make more efficient use of space segment resources, although SCPC is also considered an attractive alternative because of its simplicity and cost reductions in earth terminal requirements.