Satellite Payloads Pay Off

Software-Defined Satellite Payloads Based on Microwave Photonics! Satellite communication offers a number of distinct features that are not readily available with other means of communication, such as seamless coverage of remote and sparsely populated areas, reliable data relay for deep-space exploration, inherent multicasting and broadcasting capabilities, and reliable performance in extreme conditions (e.g., war, earthquakes, and other adverse events) [1], [2]. In recent years, the steep rise in mobile multimedia applications and increased space exploration activity have created unprecedented opportunities for innovative satellite communication. According to a report provided by the Satellite Industry Association in September 2014, the global revenue of the satellite communication industry for 2013 reached US$189.2 billion-60% of global space revenue and 4% of global telecommunications revenue [3]. Apple, Google, Amazon, Facebook, and many other large technology companies are currently seeking to bolster their satellite communication systems in the next five to ten years, fostering a continuous increase of revenue in this area.