The Microwave Contributions to Satellite Communications

Satellite communications are largely based on the efficient exploitation of microwave techniques. During the past decade, developments in this field have already led to a wide range of equipment becoming available for commercial use. In this survey of the current activities, some of the more important development trends are discussed, taking examples from European programs. Considering certain limitations that exist for the growth of satellite communications systems on one hand and an increasing demand for several application satellite systems on the other, problem areas can be indicated where future development efforts may be worthwhile to advance the state of the microwave art.