Hybrid High-Throughput Satellite (HTS) Communication Systems using RF and Light-Wave Communications

Broadband communication using satellites requires the use of Ka-band. Services of this type are now emerging all over the world, some with capacities in excess of 100 Gbps. However, as the radio bandwidth resources become exhausted, high-speed optical communication is required as well. The National Institute of Information and Communications Technology in Japan researches and develops the next generation of space communication technology. A hybrid satellite communication system using RF and light-wave communications is being studied. There are three kinds of RF antennae and one optical antenna systems for the hybrid high-throughput satellite communication system, which will be embarked in space. Here, the research and development activities of the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology are introduced.