How under-used mmWave bands can transform satellite data communications
by Mark Whetton, Director of Business Development, Filtronic
The demand for fast, reliable access to data worldwide is growing at exponential rates, as high-speed data transmission becomes increasingly critical to the systems and services we rely on every day.
Satellite communications technology offers the capacity and capability to fulfil demand for higher data rates and seamless global connectivity. But as more and more satellite constellations are launched into low Earth orbit (LEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO), satellite companies need to find the optimum frequency ranges to enable powerful, fast, low-latency data communications in increasingly crowded channels.
Exploring uncharted frequency bands
At Filtronic, we recognise that mmWave frequency bands offer the scope to support current and next-generation communications requirements. We have already established our expertise in 71-86 GHz transmit and receive technologies, supporting ambitious satellite programmes for leading-edge companies like SpaceX.
But given the huge growth in satellite traffic, satellite companies need to consider moving into other, under-utilised mmWave bands, such as Q (33-50 GHz), V (40-75 GHz) and W (75-110 GHz). These bands provide significantly greater bandwidth than the C, Ku and Ka bands traditionally used in satellite communications, enabling higher data throughput and enhanced spectral efficiency.
Congestion in the traditional frequency spectrum
After years of satellite proliferation, C, Ku and Ka bands are becoming congested. Satellite data traffic needs to move into higher frequency mmWave bands that have not yet been widely exploited. These offer wide-open areas of uninterrupted bandwidth to support smooth and interference-free data transmission.
Moving into these lesser-used frequency bands gives satellite companies the opportunity to establish high-quality, ultra-fast, reliable communications channels. mmWave frequencies are ideally suited for feeder links, enabling high-speed data exchange between satellites and ground stations, as well as for relaying data between satellites within constellations.
Accommodating data-hungry new applications
Demand for data is being driven by the increasing range and reach of applications that depend on high-speed data communications. From wireless broadband to remote sensing technologies, navigation systems to private enterprise networks, so many facets of today’s economy, society and infrastructure rely on instant data connectivity. As we move towards 6G networks, mmWave-frequency bands will become even more critical to achieving next-generation wireless telecommunications standards.
By moving into new mmWave bands, satellite communications will be able to support a range of emerging technologies that could unlock new possibilities for industry, healthcare, transport and agriculture. Many of these innovations require seamless connectivity with Internet of Things (IoT) hardware, including remote sensors and devices used in environmental monitoring, smart agriculture, disaster recovery operations, smart electricity grids and supply chain management systems.
Ultra-high-speed, low-latency data communications could also support autonomous vehicle networks and telemedicine applications – potentially enabling remote surgical procedures to be carried out by surgeons anywhere in the world. Looking beyond the Earth-bound possibilities, space agencies including ESA and NASA are exploring the use of mmWave technologies for future deep-space missions.
Advances in mmWave technology
Having developed proven systems for satellite communications at 71-86GHz, Filtronic is already developing reliable technologies for Q (33-50 GHz) and V (40-75 GHz) mmWave bands. Our advanced devices are used in both satellite ground stations, where they transmit and receive data between the Earth and orbiting satellites, and in satellite payloads, where they are designed to perform reliably in the harsh conditions of space.
We have mmWave technologies capable of communicating with and between LEO and MEO satellites, as well as satellites in geostationary orbit (GEO) more than 35,000km above the Earth.
New frontiers for data communications
When it comes to enabling current and future communications activities, mmWave frequency bands have a leading role to play in transforming satellite communications to deliver higher data rates, reduced latency and greater spectral efficiency.
As innovators such as Filtronic continue to develop advanced solutions for higher mmWave communications, satellite companies have a stellar opportunity to extend global connectivity and enable transformational new applications that could change the world.
To find out more about how we can help solve your mmWave challenges in Space, contact us at [email protected].