Communications satellite technology and services for the 90´s

The future of satellite communications is addressed from the viewpoint of both commercial and military users. Technological advances and new services are discussed, and user requirements are assessed. It is pointed out that there are many different technologies that are available for implementation on future satellite systems. It appears that the field of satellite communications will move to serve the mobile low-data-rate users. The more traditional wide-bandwidth high-data-rate users will continue to migrate to cable. New niche markets will continue to develop and be served by specialized satellite networks specially suited to serve these niche markets. It is concluded that the field of satellite communications is about to rapidly expand in many new directions, driven by new user requirements and new technology