Communication satellite services for special purpose users

The present study identifies potential satellite services, examines the technology necessary for efficient implementation of these services, and determines minimum service cost versus user network size. The generic satellite services evaluated comprise TV and radio distribution (for retransmission), video teleconferencing (interactive), audio/facsimile teleconferencing (interactive), multiplexed data/voice (point-to-point), and satellite-supported land mobile. Satellite costs are based on extrapolations from ongoing commercial satellite programs. Production methods, new technology, and effect of production quantities on present and future production costs are examined to provide information on earth station equipment cost versus the variable 'buy'. Six different launch vehicles from a Delta 2914 to a dedicated Shuttle and three frequency bands and both broadcast (no eclipse capability) and fixed service satellites are considered to assess the effect of satellite size on cost and performance. It is assumed that the user pays only for his prorata share of the space segment costs.