NASA's (National Aeronautics and Space Administration's) Advanced Communications Technology Satellite (ACTS): Will It Benefit Commercial/Military Satellites.

摘要

In 1978 NASA began research and development activities to determine needed technological advancements for the next generation of satellite communications systems. From this beginning evolved the Advanced Communications Technology Satellite (ACTS) program. The purpose of the ACTS is to develop and flight-test high-risk technologies necessary for the United States' continued growth and preeminence in the field of satellite communications. NASA identified the key technologies of onboard baseband processor, microwave switch matrix, multiple beam antennas with electronically hopping narrow spot beams, automatic rain fade compensation, and Ka band (20/30 GHz) components for inclusion in the ACTS program. With the ACTS scheduled for launch in 1992, this thesis determines whether or not the program will provide the desired benefits to commercial and military satellites. This determination is reached by first reviewing the technologies of the ACTS as well as those of present and planned communications satellites in commercial and military sectors. By comparing the reviewed technologies, a conclusion about the ACTS' ability to fulfill NASA's goal is reached. Theses. (jhd)