Satellite Communications 2 ed

Satellite Communications, 2nd Edition by Timothy Pratt, Charles Bostian, and Jeremy Allnutt is a textbook and reference guide that focuses on the fundamental principles and engineering behind satellite communication systems.
First published in 1986, the second edition (co-authored by Jeremy Allnutt) was a significant update to reflect changes in the field, including the shift from analog to digital systems. The book doesn’t aim to be an exhaustive encyclopedia of every satellite system but instead provides readers with a deep understanding of the concepts that allow a satellite to successfully transfer information between Earth stations.
Key Topics Covered
The book covers a wide range of topics, starting with the basics and moving to more complex systems. Core subjects include:
• Orbital Mechanics and Launchers: The physics of satellite orbits, including Kepler’s laws, and how satellites are placed into orbit.
• Satellite Link Design: Principles of designing a communication link, including calculating link budgets, system noise, and signal-to-noise ratios.
• Digital Transmission: The theory and practice of digital signaling, modulation, and error control.
• Modulation and Multiple Access: Techniques like FDMA, TDMA, and CDMA that allow multiple users to share a single satellite transponder.
• Propagation Effects: How atmospheric conditions and other phenomena can affect a satellite signal.
• Applications: The book also delves into specific applications that were emerging at the time, such as VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) systems, non-geostationary satellite systems (like LEO constellations), and direct broadcast satellite television.
The text is aimed at both students in senior-level or graduate courses and practicing engineers who need a foundational reference on the subject.