Lecturer: Marco Pasian  

Course name: Satellite systems
Course code: 505008
Degree course: Electronic Engineering
Disciplinary field of science: ING-INF/01
University credits: ECTS 6
Course website: n.d.

Specific course objectives

The course provides the fundamental principles of satellite communications, with particular emphasis on the electromagnetic aspects and on the communication architectures. The student will learn how and why systems are designed and operate, consolidating a sound understanding required to work as a satellite professional. The course covers a broad spectrum of topics, reflecting the complexity of satellite communication systems, giving an optimised balance between long-lasting basics and cutting-edge fast-developing trends.

Course programme

The course is organized into a number of sections corresponding to the major areas of satellite communication systems.

Section I: orbits, satellite and probe types, ground station networks
launchers, LEO, MEO, HEO, GEO, polar orbits, probes, deep-space missions, impact on satellite communications

Section II: link budget
G/T, EIRP, noise temperature, dissipative medium, cascaded networks, antenna temperature, C/N, rain effects, link margin

Section III: ground segment – ground station building blocks
reflector antennas, feeds, LNAs, HPAs, OMTs, polarizers, mode-couplers, diplexers, cryogenic devices, frequency and time distribution, mechanics, HVAC, power supply, external facilities, tracking

Section IV: space segment – satellite architectures and communication payloads
attitude and orbit control, TT&C, power systems, thermal control, antennas, space environment and qualification, communication schemes and techniques, multi-beam architectures, broadcasting

Section V: major operational example, including GNSSs (Global Navigation Satellite Systems)

Course entry requirements

Electromagnetic theory, antennas, communication theory, and passion for space science…

Course structure and teaching

Lectures (hours/year in lecture theatre): 45
Practical class (hours/year in lecture theatre): 0
Practicals / Workshops (hours/year in lecture theatre): 0

Suggested reading materials

The course topics are partially or totally covered by several textbooks and advanced books. Among the others, the following books are suggested. The slides of the course will be also available

Timothy Pratt, Charles Bostian, and Jeremy Allnutt. Satellite Communications. John Wiley & Sons, 2nd edition, U.S.A., 2003. classic textbook, excellent coverage of basic and fundamental topics .

Bruce R. Elbert. Introduction to Satellite Communication. Artech House, 3rd edition, U.S.A., 2008. alternative textbook with some room for advanced topics.

Gérard Maral, and Michel Bousquet. Satellite Communications Systems – Systems, Techniques and Technology. John Wiley & Sons, 5th edition, 2009. advanced book with a very broad coverage of satellite communication topics.

Testing and exams

Oral examination