Satcom Performances and Constraints

This lecture covers the performances and constraints of satellite communications (Satcom), focusing on bandwidth, quality of service, infrastructure, and satellite orbits. It discusses the technology-driven aspects, such as data allowance and availability, as well as the impact of satellite orbits on performance. The lecture also compares the performance of High Throughput Satellite (HTS) networks in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) with Fixed Satellite Service (FSS) from Geostationary Orbit (GEO), using examples like Starlink, HughesNet, and Viasat. Furthermore, it explores the radio spectrum utilization, advantages and disadvantages of different frequency bands, and the inherent performance drivers of Satcom technology. The presentation concludes with an overview of satellite orbits, including Geostationary Earth Orbit (GEO), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO), and Low Earth Orbit (LEO), highlighting their visibility, altitude, latency, and ground station requirements.