LEO Communication Constellations - What has Changed in 15 Years?
- Paper number
IAC-07-B2.1.04
- Author
Mr. Philip Davies, Surrey Space Centre, University of Surrey, United Kingdom
- Coauthor
Prof. Martin Sweeting, Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd., United Kingdom
- Coauthor
Mr. Jan King, Australia
- Coauthor
Dr. Arnaud Lecuyot, Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd., United Kingdom
- Coauthor
Mr. Alex da Silva Curiel, Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd., United Kingdom
- Year
2007
- Abstract
In the 1990s three large and relatively expensive constellations of small to medium sized communication satellites flying in Low-Earth Orbits (LEO) were deployed, namely Orbcomm, Iridium, and Globalstar. The experience of building one of these constellations of “little-LEOs”, Orbcomm, was captured in the book “Silicon Skies”. Although these systems addressed existing and new niche markets compared to terrestrial or GEO communications, the business cases for Orbcomm, Iridium and GlobalStar were not achieved. Indeed, due to the very large infrastructure costs of setting up the space segment, all three initial systems failed commercially. Technically, however, all three systems were a success and all three continue to operate, with satellite performance and longevity generally being better than the original specifications. The service they provide also demonstrates a real need, after commercial actions allowed offsetting the initial debts, such as bankruptcy under Chapter 11 of US Law, or asset buyout, or government involvement. Thus, it is assumed that, if the costs or the value of the constellation deployment can be reduced significantly, “LEO Comms” does have a business case. Given these systems were launched in the 1990s, all three systems need to replenish their satellites in the next few years if they are to continue providing services or upgrading them. Indeed, in 2006 both Orbcomm and GlobalStar initiated procurements leading to the replenishment of their constellations. This paper will analyse what has changed in the last 15 years to enable the replenished systems to be delivered at much lower cost than the original systems allowing updated business cases to be profitable for the owners. The paper will also look at areas where there has been little change and analyse why this should be the case. It will also perform a parametric market analysis to support the technical trade-offs. The paper will look at all aspects of the missions covering ground systems, launch, bus and payload technologies. Eventually it will conclude as to the suitability and advantages of using so-called “low-cost approach” to space mission design for these application, at technical and commercial level.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-07-B2.1.04.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.