Some practical considerations for depolarisation compensation in 14/11 and 14/12 GHz communications satellite systems

Dual-polarization frequency reuse in communications satellite systems at 14/11 GHz imposes stringent isolation and attenuation margin requirements. Many satellite links will be depolarization-limited. In most cases, a phase-only depolarization compensation network will restore adequate isolation in the 14/11 and 14/12 GHz bands. However, orientation of the linear polarization vector to be close to horizontal or vertical at the earth station eliminates the need for depolarization compensation in nearly every system. This technique is illustrated for an INTELSAT V satellite in the Atlantic Ocean region.