Space segment technologies for the 21st century: key challenges for national satellite systems

Profiles of three new unconventional satellite designs have been developed for providing 21st century fixed satellite services. These designs are optimized for national/regional satellite systems for developed countries, but could be applied to other satellite systems as well. It is felt that new orbits and new stabilization systems and much higher levels of on-board intelligence will be needed for future generations of satellites to compete with fiber optic cables. The author discusses the satellite market, intelligent satellites, advanced antenna design and costs.<
>