System concept for the development of crucial Ka band technologies

Critical Ka band technologies for a satellite transmission system were investigated. The main resources of the satellite system include the orbital position, the available frequency range, the terrestrial interface, and the coexistence with other satellite systems. In order to exploit these resources in an optimal way flexible system facilities concerning Ka band transmission strategies, regeneration and onboard switching, multibeam coverage, and intersatellite links were provided. The application of a regenerative repeater with switching capabilities yields a large potential of features for demand assignment and system reconfiguration. The baseband processor as well as the multibeam antenna were identified.