Switchboard in the sky

Geostationary parking orbits for the present generation of communications satellites, e.g., Intelsat, Westar, Molniya, Navsat, etc., are becoming crowded. It is noted that the C-band over North America will in future be subject to still less attenuation with the introduction of smaller (4.5 m) antennas for earth-bound receive-only applications. It is suggested, at least for the present, that more bands be added, e.g., K-, Ku-, and S-bands. To handle the potential market for communications satellite services during the years after 1985, much larger facilities will be needed. The fabrication of large platforms using the STS is discussed as the most practical solution, stressing that virtually every geosynchronous communications antenna for U.S. domestic use can be assembled on one platform positioned at an especially favorable location.