Government use of commercial satellite systems for disaster response

Commercial satellite communications services are undergoing major changes. Service is now available all over the world and the user terminals are becoming smaller and lighter-the capabilities offered in the terminals of the early 1980s that weighed several hundred pounds are now available in nearly pocket sized terminals that weigh approximately one pound. The new terminals also boast omni-directional antennas making them easier to use. Some new mobile satellite systems are already providing service, while many more are under development or being deployed. Advances in commercial mobile communications technology, the increasing demand for communications access from remote areas, and economic constraints have led many Federal agencies to consider commercial satellite services in lieu of private systems to satisfy some of their communications needs. Agencies must consider several factors when determining if a particular service offering is appropriate for disaster response communications. Among these are the communications requirements that can and cannot be satisfied with the service, the reliability and cost effectiveness of the service, and the congestion users are likely to experience with the service. However, for some requirements, commercial satellite communications show a great deal of promise and benefit for disaster response communications.