Recent advances in satellite and space communications

Many of the wireless technologies used today are based on the efforts initiated by satellite communications researchers decades ago. Thus, the main technology behind the different applications is very similar in both terrestrial and space systems although today satellite is often benefiting from wireless techniques advancement. This is very supportive today, with the ever growing demand for multimedia services, high mobility and global connectivity leading us to a truly transparent interoperability of our flourishing communications infrastructure. Satellite systems have always a key role to play covering this demand for ordinary as well as for emergency situations. This Special Issue of JCN puts together high-quality research articles on recent advances in satellite and space communications. The focus is targeted on exploring and discussing new technical advance and applications focusing on several aspects related to satellite and space communications. In more detail: Multi-carrier systems and modulation; quality of service (QoS) in satellite networks; error recovery and synchronization methods; security issues.