Use of VSAT technology in educational applications

Summary form only given. A satellite-based educational delivery system utilizing full-motion real-time television broadcast, with programs originated from multiple studio/uplink sites and received at multiple VSAT (very small aperture terminal) receive-only terminals, is described as an example of current VSAT capabilities and limitations for educational applications. For the educational television network used as an example, several data characteristics (data rates, duty cycles, acceptable delays, etc.) are described along with the protocols utilized for two-way audio and data interactivity via a combination of satellite broadcast and terrestrial telephone circuits. It is suggested that these same protocols, with relatively minor modifications, should be acceptable for two-way VSAT networks for educational applications. Target costs for the VSAT terminals, hubs, and space segment are suggested along with other considerations for the change from an existing network configuration to a two-way VSAT configuration.<>