Book description
This is the first book primarily about the satellite payload of
satellite communications systems. It represents a unique combination
of practical systems engineering and communications theory. It tells
about the satellites in geostationary and low-earth orbits today, both
the so-called bent-pipe payloads and the processing payloads. The
on-orbit environment, mitigated by the spacecraft bus, is described.
The payload units (e. g. antennas and amplifiers), as well as
payload-integration elements (e. g. waveguide and switches) are
discussed in regard to how they work, what they do to the signal,
their technology, environment sensitivity, and specifications. At a
higher level are discussions on the payload as an entity: architecture
including redundancy; specifications--what they mean, how they relate
to unit specifications, and how to verify; and
specification-compliance analysis (“budgets”) with uncertainty.
Aspects of probability theory handy for calculating and using
uncertainty and variation are presented. The highest-level
discussions, on the end-to-end communications system, start with a
practical introduction to physical-layer communications theory.
Atmospheric effects and interference on the communications link are
described. A chapter gives an example of optimizing a multibeam
payload via probabilistic analysis. Finally, practical tips on system
simulation and emulation are provided. The carrier frequencies treated
are 1 GHz and above. Familiarity with Fourier analysis will enhance
understanding of some topics. References are provided throughout the
book for readers who want to dig deeper.
Payload systems engineers, payload proposal writers,
satellite-communications systems designers and analysts, and satellite
customers will find that the book cuts their learning time.
Spacecraft-bus systems engineers, payload unit engineers, and
spacecraft operators will gain insight into the overall system.
Students in systems engineering, microwave engineering, communications
theory, probability theory, and communications simulation and
modelling will find examples to supplement theoretical texts.
TERESA M. BRAUN, PhD
, is President of Braun Communications Consulting GmbH. She has
twenty-six years' experience in satellite and ground systems and
technology, twenty-three in communications, and three in navigation, at
major corporations. She earned her PhD at UCLA in electrical engineering
in 1989.
