Satellite systems for multimedia and Internet traffic

Satellite networks handle Internet and multimedia traffic at C- and Ku-bands today, while a new generation of systems is being developed at Ka-band. Present satellite systems provide high-speed ISP backbone connectivity and two-way Internet accesses. Future Ka-band systems are primarily targeted for business and home users with low-cost fixed user terminals. Satellite links are also used for interconnecting remote networks as well as some semi-fixed and mobile networks applications. This paper provides an overview of the present and planned satellite systems/services, and addresses the key related RF and antenna technology issues.