When it comes to satellite communications, innovation is the key to solving the need for higher levels of data transmission capabilities and coverage. In recent years, one concept has gained significant importance: multi-orbit strategy.
Traditionally, satellite communication networks have relied on satellites positioned in a single type of orbit, such as geostationary orbit (GEO), medium Earth Orbit (MEO) or low Earth orbit (LEO). Each orbit type comes with its unique set of advantages and limitations. For instance, GEO satellites provide wide coverage and high capacity but have higher latency. MEO satellites offer lower latency and higher throughput, making them suitable for applications requiring speed and reliability. LEO satellites provide the lowest latency, ideal for consumer broadband and real-time applications.
The Importance of Multi-Orbit Networks
The multi-orbit strategy refers to the ability of satellite communication systems to operate concurrently with different orbits or seamlessly switch between them. By leveraging the strengths of multiple orbital altitudes, this strategy creates a robust and versatile network that enhances overall performance, enabling high-speed internet access, improved coverage, enhanced communication, and resilient services. Offering multi-orbit capabilities is becoming a must-have for companies to remain competitive. While it might seem like a marketing term, there are significant benefits and challenges to achieving the seamless, always-connected, ultra-fast, and super reliable performance that a multi-orbit network can provide.
Benefits and Challenges
One of the primary advantages is enhanced connectivity. Using satellites in different orbits, services can ensure ubiquitous connectivity, especially in areas where terrestrial networks are unavailable. Another significant advantage is low latency. By leveraging LEO and MEO satellites, multi-orbit services can offer low-latency communication, which is crucial for real-time applications. Furthermore, MEO and LEO satellites provide high throughput, supporting bandwidth-intensive applications with high data rates.
Additionally, the integration of multiple orbits enhances network resilience. This means that even if one satellite fails, the network can keep providing continuous service.
However, there are also some challenges associated with multi-orbit networks. Managing and integrating multiple orbits requires sophisticated technology and coordination, which increases operational complexity. Potential interference between satellites from different orbits can affect signal quality, necessitating advanced mitigation techniques.
Most of these issues are technical, but the main challenge multi-orbit networks will face in becoming a reality across jurisdictions is navigating significantly heterogeneous regulatory frameworks. The concept of a multi-orbit solution involves developing earth stations or terminals capable of connecting with both geostationary orbit (GSO) and non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) systems. This requires satellite operators to lead the way in defining numerous regulatory and licensing issues that existing frameworks are not yet equipped to handle. The main challenges include:
Spectrum permits: In principle, spectrum licensing for NGSO and GSO systems follows distinct regulatory paths, each with its own technical parameters and procedures. This divergence presents a significant challenge, as earth stations connecting to both NGSO and GSO systems must comply with varying requirements and thresholds set at the domestic level, in line with International Telecommunication Union (ITU) Recommendations and Resolutions.
Terminal approval: Type approval standards for multi-orbit solutions have not yet been defined. This lack of standardised criteria adds another layer of difficulty for satellite operators trying to navigate the regulatory landscape. Additionally, regulators often lack a full understanding of the multi-orbit solution and its implications, resulting in potential licensing approval delays. Authorities can be reluctant when faced with the unknown, further complicating the licensing process.
Network licensing: In jurisdictions without blanket licensing, existing issues – such as spectrum fees charged per terminal, per band, or per service – will become even more complex. These jurisdictions typically lack a technologically neutral licensing regimen and may require a local gateway, adding to the intricacies of licensing a multi-orbit solution.
Unlocking Multi-Orbit’s Full Potential
In summary, while the multi-orbit strategy represents a revolutionary approach to improving satellite communications networks – promising ubiquitous connectivity, low latency, high throughput and robust network resiliency – it is not without its complexities. The primary barrier to widespread adoption remains the complex and evolving regulatory landscape. To fully realise the potential of multi-orbit solutions, satellite operators must navigate varying licensing paths, undefined type approval standards, and jurisdictional challenges. Success in this effort will not only redefine satellite communications, making them a promising solution for the future of global connectivity, but also bridge the digital divide, bringing high-speed internet and advanced communications services to even the most remote corners of the world.
Access Partnership helps clients navigate the regulatory complexities of satellite telecommunications through expert analysis and strategic guidance. We work with policymakers and businesses to shape policy and regulatory frameworks, helping clients understand how to adapt to them. To find out more about how our Regulatory Strategy & Market Access experts can help you, please contact Carolina Daza at [email protected].
