Keywords

Nano-Satellite, Satellite Communication, Satellite Personal Communication Networks, Globalstar, S-PCN, Thuraya

Abstract

Satellites typically communicate with locations on the ground to receive commands and send data back. Establishing reliable communications generally requires dedicated ground stations, which in turn require hardware and expertise. Developers of nano-satellites, however, may not have the expertise or resources necessary for establishing a dedicated ground station. Therefore, the use of an existing communication system, such as the Satellite Personal Communication Networks (S-PCNs), is attractive. Another shortcoming of the fixed ground stations, already available, is that they are normally only able to communicate with Low Earth Orbit (LEO) nano-satellites four times per day (two10-minute windows separated by 90 minutes, followed 12 hours later by two more such 10-minute windows). This drawback is also overcome by the use of S-PCNs which provide increased access times, smaller gaps in contact between the satellites and ground stations, and easier tracking of satellite health. In this thesis, the capabilities of S-PCNs for communications with a nano-satellite are explored. Software simulation and analysis have been performed to assess system performance. Ground testing of the hardware is done to understand the use of such systems for small satellites.

Notes

If this is your thesis or dissertation, and want to learn how to access it or for more information about readership statistics, contact us at STARS@ucf.edu

Graduation Date

2008

Advisor

Eastes, Richard

Degree

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

College of Engineering and Computer Science

Department

Electrical Engineering and Computer Science

Degree Program

Electrical Engineering

Format

application/pdf

Identifier

CFE0002488

URL

http://purl.fcla.edu/fcla/etd/CFE0002488

Language

English

Release Date

September 2009

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Access Status

Masters Thesis (Open Access)

Download

Share

COinS