This chapter describes the basic elements of the space segment, specifically as it applies to general communications satellites. The space segment equipment carried aboard the satellite can be classified under two functional areas, the bus and the payload. The chapter describes the basic characteristics of each of the bus subsystems. It discusses the key elements of the payload portion of the space segment, specifically for communications satellite systems; the transponder and antenna sub‐systems. Much of the equipment in the satellite itself will generate heat, which must be controlled. Attitude control is necessary so that the antennas, which usually have narrow directional beams, are pointed correctly towards earth. Orbital control, often called station keeping, is the process required to maintain a satellite in its proper orbit location. The tracking, telemetry, command, and monitoring (TTC&M) subsystem provides essential spacecraft management and control functions to keep the satellite operating safely in orbit.
Satellite Subsystems
2017-05-01
14 pages
Article/Chapter (Book)
Electronic Resource
English
Development of Satellite Mechanical Subsystems
British Library Conference Proceedings | 1998
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