Satellites and Services - Satellite Applications

b) Internet and Phone Services Using Satcom

Satellite communications can be used to provide Internet and phone services to areas where traditional land-based networks are not available or are inadequate. Here are some examples of the Internet and phone services that can be offered using satellite communications:

1. Satellite Internet: Satellite Internet is a service that provides high-speed Internet access to remote or rural areas. It uses a satellite in geostationary orbit to communicate with a ground station, which then provides the Internet access to users. Satellite Internet can provide download speeds of up to 100 Mbps, although the actual speeds can vary depending on the provider and the location.

2. Voice over IP (VoIP): Voice over IP is a technology that allows phone calls to be made over the Internet. By using satellite communications, VoIP can be used to provide phone services to areas where traditional phone networks are not available or are unreliable. The quality of the phone service can vary depending on the latency of the satellite connection and the bandwidth available, but in many cases it is similar to traditional phone services.

3. Mobile satellite services: Mobile satellite services (MSS) are satellite-based services that can be used to provide voice and data communications to mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets. MSS can be used in remote areas, on ships, and in aircraft, where traditional land-based networks are not available or are unreliable.

4. Emergency communications: Satellite communications can be used to provide emergency communications in areas that have been affected by natural disasters or other emergencies. Satellite phones and other devices can be used to establish communications when land-based networks are down or overloaded.

Satellite Internet and other services providers:

Several companies offer satellite Internet services worldwide. Here are some of the major providers:

1. Viasat: Viasat is a California-based company that provides satellite Internet services to customers in the United States, Europe, and Latin America. Its high-speed Internet service is marketed under the brand names Viasat Internet and Exede.

2. HughesNet: HughesNet is a Maryland-based company that provides satellite Internet services to customers in the United States, as well as some parts of Canada and South America. Its high-speed Internet service is marketed under the brand names HughesNet and HughesNet Gen5.

3. Inmarsat: Inmarsat is a global satellite communications company based in the United Kingdom that provides a wide range of satellite-based services, including mobile and broadband Internet services.

4. Eutelsat: Eutelsat is a France-based company that provides satellite-based communications services, including satellite Internet services, to customers in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

5. Telesat: Telesat is a Canadian satellite communications company that provides a range of satellite-based services, including satellite Internet services, to customers in Canada, the United States, and South America.

6. SpaceX: SpaceX is an American company that is developing a satellite-based broadband Internet service called Starlink. The service is currently available in limited areas and is expected to expand in the coming years.

7. OneWeb: OneWeb is a company that is developing a satellite-based broadband Internet service, which it plans to offer worldwide. The service is expected to be available in some areas starting in 2022.

The specific providers and services available in a given area can vary depending on factors such as geography, population density, and regulatory restrictions.

How Internet and Phone Services differ from Mobile Satellite Services?

Internet and phone services and mobile satellite services (MSS) are two different types of satellite-based communications services, with some key differences.

Internet and phone services typically provide high-speed Internet access and voice communication services to fixed locations, such as homes, offices, and other buildings. These services use a satellite in geostationary orbit to communicate with a ground station, which then provides the Internet and phone services to users. They typically offer high bandwidth and low latency, making them well-suited for activities such as video streaming, online gaming, and voice calling.

In contrast, MSS are designed to provide voice and data communications to mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, in remote areas, on ships, and in aircraft, where traditional land-based networks are not available or are unreliable. MSS typically use low-earth orbit (LEO) or medium-earth orbit (MEO) satellites, which orbit closer to the Earth than geostationary satellites. This reduces latency and makes it possible to provide real-time voice and data communications, although typically at lower data rates than fixed satellite services.

Another difference between Internet and phone services and MSS is in the equipment required. Fixed satellite services typically require a satellite dish and modem, while mobile satellite services require a satellite phone or other specialized equipment. Additionally, mobile satellite services often require specialized antennas and equipment that can be used in vehicles, aircraft, or other mobile environments.

In summary, while both Internet and phone services and mobile satellite services are satellite-based communications services, they serve different needs and use different equipment and technology. Internet and phone services are typically used in fixed locations and offer high bandwidth and low latency, while MSS are designed for use in remote or mobile environments and offer real-time communications at lower data rates.