ISSUE 33 | OCTOBER 2014
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WATCHING
With customers wanting higher bandwidth at lower rates, how will operators tackle the wave?
BROADCASTING
Fix & Mobile Satellite Service Provider MVSAT
Broadband INTERNET via Satellite
New TV hotspot over the region
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T: +971 44529993 F: +97144584662
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Grosvenor Business Tower / Tecom | Dubai/ U.A.E.
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SatEditorial Group Chairman and Founder Dominic De Sousa Group CEO Nadeem Hood
Thank you Amsterdam
Group COO Gina O’Hara
Boy, what a month it’s been! Amsterdam played host to Europe’s largest broadcast exhibition, IBC. If you weren’t there, you certainly missed a fantastic show.
Publishing Director Raz Islam raz.islam@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 440 9129
Right from the get go, the atmosphere was electric, the fervour unmatched and the pzazz undeniably exhilarating. The perfect recipe for a successful trade show.
Editorial Director Vijaya Cherian vijaya.cherian@cpimediagroup.com +971 55 105 3787 Editor Clayton Aldo Vallabhan clayton.aldo@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5479 Sub Editor Aelred Doyle ADVERTISING Group Sales Manager Sandip Virk sandip.virk@cpimediagroup.com +44 7734 442526 Senior Sales Manager Rodi Hennawi rodi.hennawi@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 440 9106 DESIGN Art Director Simon Cobon Senior Designer Roy Cruz PHOTOGRAPHY Jay Colina PRODUCTION Production Managers James P. Tharian james.tharian@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 440 9146 Vipin V Vijay vipin.vijay@cpimediagroup.com +971 4 375 5713 CIRCULATION Database Manager Rajeesh M rajeesh.nair@cpimediagroup.com +9714 440 9147 DIGITAL SERVICES Digital Services Manager Tristan Troy Maagma Published by
Registered at IMPZ PO Box 13700 Dubai, UAE Tel: +971 4 440 9100 Fax: +971 4 447 2409 www.cpimediagroup.com Printed by Printwell Printing Press LLC
© Copyright 2014 CPI. All rights reserved. While the publishers have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of all information in this magazine, they will not be held responsible for any errors therein.
It was great to see so many familiar faces from the region, and meet new ones from all over the globe. IBC truly was a melting pot of the crème de la crème of the broadcast world, alongside startups willing to research, innovate and implement. In the evenings, when our trainers were worn out from marching the halls, and every imaginable ache in our body took over, the city of tulips lulled us with its subtle vibe. Just the remedy to get you back on your feet the next morning feeling rejuvenated and ready for another power walk through the halls. Amidst the delicious helpings of Bitterballen, Patata and chocolate, I struck up quite a few friendships with industry spearheads, and invited them to visit Dubai in November for our Summit and Awards. That reminds me: if you haven’t nominated yourself, get down to doing it now. All in all, after my short sojourn, I came back with a much better understanding of our industry and more than a gentleman’s quota of good relationships. As always, I’d love to hear your feedback and comments on the magazine. Please send them through to me by email, or simply pick up the phone and call. Clayton Vallabhan Editor
In this edition: “Over the past year, we have seen exceptional popularity for our East Beam service as a focus for regional high-quality Farsi content.” Sami Boustany, CEO, Yahlive Page 5
“Clients expect satellite to match fibre-optic speed and reliability, and don’t tolerate any glitches. They expect no-fault operations.” Gleb Larionov, MD, Xsat Global Page 12
“By creating a separation between the beams, you can use the spectrum again. The more complex the geography, the more complex this becomes.” Deepak Mathur, SVP, Commercial, Asia-Pacific and Middle East, SES Page 23
“Living in a smart city environment will have dramatic lifestyle benefits for all residents, with a hyperconnected environment.” Rafiah Ibrahim, President and Head of Middle East and North East Africa, Ericsson Page 39
October 2014 | SatellitePro | 1
SatContents Issue 33 | October 2014
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SatNews
SatTechnology
4
30
Pseudo Satellite
Satellite Life Extension
EIAST launches AASP with High Altitude Pseudo Satellite, Yahlive adds BBC Persian and Arabic, Indian spaceship Mangalyaan reaches Mars orbit and more
SatLead
As satellite operators are challenged to provide enhanced services at a lower cost per bit, a creative approach is required to meet these new economic demands
10
SatStudy
10
36
VSAT-based communications technology enables continuous connectivity for voice, video and data applications in some of the most diverse and remote environments
Airbus Defence & Space chose Newtec Dialog as the satellite comunications platform to expand its Terralink satellite connectivity service portfolio
Watching VSAT
Making the Right Switch
SatEvents
SatGuest
16
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IBC Wrap-up
Satellite Interference
IBC attracted a total of 55,092 attendees, an increase of 4% on 2013. Attendees from more than 170 countries visited over 1,500 exhibitors at the show
24
Satellite Interference is an issue that affects the entire industry. In reality, it is minimal; however, for those affected by disruption of service it is not ideal
SatEvents
24
Get Ready for GITEX
This is the 34th edition of the home-grown technology exhibition, and will be held at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre from 12-16 October
36
October 2014 | SatellitePro | 3
SatNews
EIAST launches AASP with High Altitude Pseudo Satellite EIAST has launched the Advanced Aerial Systems Program (AASP), which aims to develop the UAE’s capabilities in the fields of designing, manufacturing and operating advanced aerial systems, in line with EIAST’s mission to develop advanced science and technology across the UAE. The first project in the programme is the joint development of the High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS) system in partnership with Airbus DS. The HAPS system uses solar power to fly above the weather and provide persistent presence for a range of applications. HAPS has demonstrated the ability to fly for over two weeks, ten times longer than any other Unmanned Aerial system (UAS). The HAPS system can fly in the stratosphere at 65,600 feet above air traffic, making it a robust system for handling various applications. The payloads on the system can be changed
Engineers from EIAST working on the HAPS aircraft.
on the ground to fit with different applications. Some of these include thermal imaging, full-HD video imaging, creating temporary communication networks and strengthening navigation systems. The first generation of the aircraft is projected to go into operation by the end of 2016. Yousuf Hamad Al Shaibani, Director General of EIAST, said: “The project
represents a milestone for EIAST and is a new achievement that will support efforts to create a culture of applied research and development driven by advanced technologies and innovation. We recognise the value of developing a world-class technical platform, which falls in line with achieving the UAE’s Vision 2021 of a competitive Knowledge Economy.”
IndIan spaceshIp ManGaLYaan reaches Mars OrBIT
ses BrOadBand and OrBITcOM exTend parTnershIp
ThuraYa appOInTs MarITIMe MarkeT deveLOpMenT ManaGer
India has made history by becoming the first nation to reach Mars on its maiden launch. The Indian Mars Orbiter Mission’s (MOM) craft, Mangalyaan, entered orbit on 24 September, after a 10-month journey to the red planet. MOM was developed with home-grown technology at a cost of $75 million. By comparison, NASA’s Maven mission cost nearly $671 million. The Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, joined scientists at ISRO mission control during the final phase of Mangalyaan entering the Martian orbit. Commenting on the momentous occasion, Modi said: “We must use our science to better governance, achieve economic growth and deliver the fruits of our development to people it’s never reached in the past.” Mangalyaan will circle the planet for six months gathering data that may shed light on Martian weather systems. It will also search for methane, a key compound in life processes.
SES Broadband Services has announced an expansion of its partnership with internet service provider Orbitcom. The partnership includes the delivery of Astra Connect for communities in Germany. The new deal follows Orbitcom’s successful delivery of the Astra Connect service, which provides broadband internet to individual households and businesses via a satellite dish. The partnership, which has been in place since April, has now been extended to include the marketing of Astra Connect for communities. The solution uses a single antenna to provide an entire community with a satellite broadband connection, which is then distributed via a local network infrastructure, such as Wi-Fi. Users served by the networks will be able to browse the different packages offered online and then place orders through a dedicated website.
Leticia Diaz Del Rio has joined Thuraya as Market Development Manager, Maritime, based in Dubai. As a member of the Market Development team, Del Rio will be responsible for directly generating customer demand, as well as identifying and cultivating new opportunities to sell Thuraya’s maritime products and services through direct engagement with end-users and service partners around the globe.
www.eiast.ae
www.isro.org
4 | SatellitePro | October 2014
www.ses.com ww.orbitcom.biz
Leticia Diaz Del Rio, Maritime Market Development Manager. www.thuraya.com
Yahlive adds BBC Persian and Arabic
asIasaT prOvIdes capacITY fOr 2014 asIan GaMes
Yahlive is growing its regionally focused platform with the addition of BBC World Service television channels BBC Persian and BBC Arabic from October 2014. The channels will further drive success into 2015, following growth of 140% in terms of channels over the past year, benefiting from the East Beam’s strategic focus as a regional hotspot for Farsi-speakers. With over 110 channels in HD and SD already broadcasting on Yahlive in Farsi, Arabic, English, Afghani and Kurdish, BBC Persian and BBC Arabic are joining the stable of in-demand content on the free-to-air (FTA) service from October 2014. Yahlive is also adding radio programming from BBC Arabic and from the BBC’s Afghan service. Through offering customised TV packages for a culturally diverse audience, Yahlive is quickly gaining geographical and viewer traction, particularly across the priority East Beam region of the Levant, GCC and Southwest Asia. Sami Boustany, CEO of Yahlive, said: “Over
AsiaSat will provide transponder capacity to Globecast and KTsat, to support live coverage of the 2014 Asian Games. The 2014 Asian Games, featuring 439 events in 36 sports, are being held in Incheon, South Korea, from 19 September to 4 October. AsiaSat will supply C-band capacity on AsiaSat 4, AsiaSat 5 and AsiaSat 7 for television feeds, enabling viewers to watch the Games on TV or real-time on their mobile devices. William Wade, President and Chief Executive Officer of AsiaSat, said, “The 2014 sports calendar has been one of the busiest and most exciting for AsiaSat. Following the Winter Olympics in Sochi and the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, we are proud of the key role AsiaSat will play in broadcasting the 2014 Asian Games across the Asia-Pacific region.” Back in 1990, when China hosted the 11th Asian Games in Beijing, AsiaSat provided capacity on AsiaSat 1.
Sami Boustany, CEO, Yahlive.
the past year, we have seen exceptional popularity for our East Beam service as a focus for regional high quality Farsi content, as we commit to meeting the needs of regional audiences. We continue to select channel partners based on the quality of their programming and offer a selective choice of premium television channels to our diverse and culturally rich viewers across the region.” www.yahlive.com www.bbc.com
www.asiasat.com
vIrGIn aTLanTIc parTners wITh GOGO fOr In-fLIGhT cOnnecTIvITY On exIsTInG fLeeT Of aIrcrafT Virgin Atlantic has partnered with Gogo, an aero communications service provider, to offer in-flight connectivity services on its existing fleet of aircraft. “Virgin Atlantic is on the cutting edge when it comes to delivering technology solutions to their passengers, and we’re extremely excited to deliver the best connectivity solutions to keep their passengers connected anywhere they fly around the world,” said Michael Small, Gogo’s president and CEO. “Virgin Atlantic’s relationship with Delta Air Lines will also allow us to build a seamless experience for passengers who fly both airlines.” Gogo and Virgin Atlantic have agreed on principal terms and are currently working to finalise a definitive agreement. Under the agreement, all of Virgin Atlantic’s existing aircraft will be retrofitted with Gogo’s 2Ku solution. Reuben Arnold, Brand and Customer Engagement Director at Virgin Atlantic, said: “We’re always looking at ways to enhance the on-board experience for our customers, and expanding in-flight connectivity across
our fleet is just one of the ways in which we are doing this. We were impressed with Gogo’s connectivity solution and look forward to all of our customers being able to enjoy this service whilst they fly.”
www.virgin-atlantic.com www.gogoair.com
October 2014 | SatellitePro | 5
SatNews
Es’hailsat selects MELCO for Es’hail 2 Es’hailSat, the Qatar Satellite Company, today announced that following an international consultation, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation (MELCO), has been selected to build the company’s second satellite, Es’hail 2. The new satellite will be positioned at the 26-degrees East hotspot for TV broadcasting, and adds to the company’s ability to provide premium DTH television content across the Middle East and North Africa. Es’hail 2 will have Ku-band and Kaband capabilities and will provide TV distribution and government services to strategic stakeholders and commercial customers who value broadcasting and communications independence, interference resilience, quality of service and wide geographical coverage. Moreover, Es’hail 2 will provide the first Radio Amateur Satellite Corporation (AMSAT) geostationary communication capability that links Brazil to
India in one single hop and in real time. It will also allow the AMSAT community to validate and demonstrate their DVB standard. The Es’hail 2 design activities started on 17 July 2014, and it will take approximately 27 months to complete manufacturing and testing. The satellite is expected to launch at the end of 2016. In addition to the manufacture of Es’hail 2, MELCO will also operate an in-house satellite training programme for Qatari engineers, continuing the company’s strategy of developing capabilities within the organisation and building a sustainable satellite industry for Qatar. Ali Al Kuwari, Chief Executive Officer of Es’hailSat, commented: “With the success of our first satellite – Es’hail 1 – we are delighted to move forward with our satellite procurement program with MELCO. Es’hail 2 demonstrates both our commitment to providing premium
nILesaT Leases euTeLsaT 8 wesT B TranspOnders
avanTI chOOses arIanespace fOr hYLas 4 Launch
OnLIMe enTers capacITY aGreeMenT wITh MeasaT
Eutelsat has announced that Nilesat has taken a long-term lease for multiple transponders on the EUTELSAT 8 West B satellite, to be launched in mid-2015. The 7/8 degrees West video neighbourhood operated by Eutelsat and Nilesat broadcasts more than 1,000 TV channels to over 52 million homes, from Morocco in the west to the Gulf in the east. Eutelsat and Nilesat have progressively built a comprehensive broadcast infrastructure at 7/8 degrees West, comprising three Eutelsat and two Nilesat satellites.
Avanti Communications Group has chosen Arianespace launch services for its latest telecommunications satellite, Hylas 4. Arianespace will launch Hylas 4 into geostationary transfer orbit (GTO) during the first half of 2017, using an Ariane 5 ECA from the Guiana Space Center, Europe’s spaceport in French Guiana. Hylas 4 will be the third Avanti Communications satellite to be launched by Arianespace and will be built by Orbital Sciences Corporation in Dulles, Virginia, using a Star-2 platform. It will weigh up to 4,000 kg at launch, and will provide direct TV broadcast and data transmission services to Africa, Latin America and Europe over an expected service life of 15 years. “We are very honoured to have been selected for this launch by Avanti Communications,” said Stéphane Israël, Chairman and CEO of Arianespace. “We are also delighted to be working with OSC: Hylas 4 will be the 27th satellite built by Orbital Sciences to be launched by Arianespace.”
MEASAT has announced an agreement with Onlime GmbH for additional transponder capacity on the AFRICASAT1a satellite. Under the terms of the agreement, Onlime expands capacity on AFRICASAT-1a to support their continuous growth in the African markets. Onlime, which brought together CET Teleport and the Limeline Group earlier this year, operates one of the leading teleports in Europe, offering a broad range of premium quality business communications solutions to enterprise, government, military, oil & gas, mining, hotels, banking, NGOs and many other customer groups across the globe. “Onlime services across Africa are in high demand,” said Paul Ziegler, Chief Executive Officer, Onlime. “AFRICASAT-1a, with its high-powered pan-African coverage, is an excellent platform for expanding our services across the continent.”
Michel Azibert, Deputy CEO Eutelsat.
www.nilesat.com www.eutelsat.com
6 | SatellitePro | October 2014
www.avantiplc.com
Ali Al Kuwari, CEO, Es’hailSat.
satellite capacity for broadcasters in the MENA region and to building a sustainable satellite industry for the state of Qatar.” www.eshailsat.qa www.mitsubishielectric.com
www.onlime.com www.measat.com
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SatNews
Etisalat upgrades business broadband packages at no extra cost Etisalat’s business customers in the UAE are in for a major upgrade as Etisalat boosts broadband speeds by up to 2.5 times for free. Etisalat will double the speeds of its existing business customers, at no additional charge. For example, business customers subscribed to 4Mbps speed will be automatically upgraded, free of charge, to 10Mbps broadband speeds. Customers subscribed to other business packages will also experience a speed boost, with varying levels of speed. New business customers will also enjoy the benefits of higher speeds at lower rates. UAE is poised to be a global business hub for entrepreneurs and start-ups, who are keen to benefit from the country’s booming economy. In a rapidly changing business landscape with technology advancements, proliferation of social media and an increasing number of business applications, high-speed broadband connectivity
is a crucial requirement for increased business productivity and profitability. Salvador Anglada, Chief Business Officer at Etisalat, said, “To support this demand and the nation’s ICT vision, Etisalat has
invested billions in developing a solid fibreoptic infrastructure. For over 30 years, we have backed businesses in the UAE with technology, connectivity and innovative solutions customised to business needs across industry verticals. As a one-stop integrated technology partner, we want to help you take your business to the next level. The double speed upgrade is our promise and commitment to make our technology work for you and grow your business, allow you to do more and stand out from your competition.” “Among other benefits, Etisalat’s speed upgrades on its fixed-line network will provide faster and extremely reliable fixed-line internet connection, ensuring increased efficiencies, better global connectivity, reduced costs and improved customer service, resulting in increased profitability,” Anglada added. www.etisalat.ae
newTec heLps BenTLeY waLker exTend cOveraGe TO Iraq
MeasaT 3B Launches successfuLLY
Bentley Walker, a service provider for broadband satellite VSAT services, is extending its coverage to Iraq using Newtec’s Ka-band VSAT broadband platform. The new service, which will initially deliver high speed broadband connectivity to Iraq, went live earlier this month and will provide reliable high-speed internet connectivity across the country, using a Newtec IP Broadband HUB installed at Avanti’s new gateway at Makarios Teleport in Cyprus. The new service will use High Throughput Satellite (HTS) Ka-band capacity on Avanti’s HYLAS 2 satellite, which was launched in August 2012. Complex geography and poor terrestrial infrastructure in Iraq means satellite-based broadband internet is quickly becoming the preferred high-speed solution for the majority of the country. Anthony Walker, CEO of Bentley Walker, said: “We have been very happy with our Ka-band system, which also uses Newtec equipment, in Libya, where it is our number one selling service, and we will use the same product to take us to the forefront of the
MEASAT has launched its latest satellite, MEASAT 3b. The satellite was launched at 7:05 GFT (French Guiana time) on 12 September from the European spaceport in Kourou, French Guiana. “MEASAT-3b was initiated in June 2011. This spacecraft, Malaysia’s largest and most advanced to date, is the result of more than three years’ cooperation between MEASAT, Airbus Defence and Space, the satellite manufacturer; and Arianespace, the satellite launch service provider,” said Paul BrownKenyon, Chief Executive Officer, MEASAT Satellite Systems Sdn. Bhd. “We look forward to a successful launch.” MEASAT 3b is equipped with 48 high-powered Ku-band transponders to support video and data services across Malaysia, India, Indonesia and Australia. MEASAT 3b will be co-located with MEASAT 3 and MEASAT 3a at 91.5-degrees East to create the region’s most powerful and robust orbital location.
8 | SatellitePro | October 2014
Anthony Walker, CEO, Bentley Walker.
market in Iraq. The Newtec Network Management System will provide our in-country distribution partners full access and control to the installed terminals, allowing our partners to deliver on-the-spot after-sales support in the local language. Newtec’s unique capability to enable Committed Information Rate (CIR) services is another clear advantage that allows us to extend our services to business users who typically have higher service requirements. We can now deliver tailor-made service solutions in line with the requirements of all customers.” www.newtec.eu
www.measat.com
SatLead
10 | SatellitePro | October 2014
Watching VSAT VSAT-based communications technology enables connectivity in some of the most diverse and remote environments. With clients demanding increased data rates at lower costs, SatellitePro ME looks at how VSAT operators are equipping themselves
October 2014 | SatellitePro | 11
SatLead
VSAT-managed services are ideal for businesses that need to transmit data to and from their business locations in areas with limited connectivity. It is also an ideal alternative route for businesses looking to back up traditional networks. Fahad Al Hassawi, CCO at Du, says VSAT can be used for “corporate, enterprise and government customers, and in every segment that uses mission-critical or timesensitive applications. It is ideal for reliable data from remote sites, to transfer video or image files, back-up for financial networks or just connecting corporate intranets with moderate to high traffic.” Verticals that VSAT has been used in include oil & gas, marine, government agencies, educational institutes for distance learning and home use. Gleb Larionov, Managing Director of Xsat Global, says the main requirements of VSAT customers are high-speed internet access in remote locations, telephone communications and back-up to terrestrial networks. “VSAT offers customers mobility, reliability, rapid deployment of the equipment and allocation of bandwidth based on the requirements. It can accommodate multiple locations and offers flexible plans and reasonable cost to the end-user.” According to Hassawi, clients require support for delocalisation and global operations of companies to remote locations, where there is poor or no telecom infrastructure. He thinks that managed VSAT services are the most viable option. “Managed VSAT has become a great value proposition for these customers. With no up-front investments and an end-to-end offering of the service, we take the hassle out of buying and selfmanaging a VSAT solution. Our current managed VSAT offerings provide SLAs, combined with detailed reporting and a 24x7x365 support helpdesk to run a critical service.” Satellites can relay information via a number of different frequency bands in order to combat signal break-up caused by adverse atmospheric conditions. This is especially important for VSAT applications. The most commonly used satellite frequencies are: 12 | SatellitePro | October 2014
Fahad Al Hassawi, CCO, Du.
Gleb Larionov, MD, Xsat Global.
“Managed VSAT has become a great value proposition for these customers. With no upfront investments and an end-to-end offering of the service, we take the hassle out of buying and self-managing a VSAT solution” FAHAD AL HASSAWI, CCO, Du • C-band: Most commonly used in high rainfall areas such as Asia and Latin America due to its tolerance to ‘rain-fade’. • Ku-Band: Higher EIRP (Equivalent Isotropic Radiated Power) and most used for direct to home services requiring small receive antenna. • Ka-Band: This frequency is highly susceptible to ‘rain-fade’ and not yet subject to wide commercial usage. Speaking about using the optimal frequency band, Hassawi says: “These bands are commonly used as standardised telecom solutions. There are some key
parameters and requirements to consider when assessing a VSAT solution, such as banding – choose the one that suits the application the most, C, Ka or Ku; look angles; elevation and azimuth; network topologies like Broadcast, Point to Point, Star, Mesh or Hybrid or access technologies, such as single channel per carrier (SCPC); frequency division multiple access (FDMA); demand assigned multiple access (DAMA); and time division multiple access (TDMA).” However, even if VSAT operators get the formula right, client requirements are constantly evolving. Larionov explains that VSAT service clients require higher bandwidth and more data, but at lower prices compared to 10 years ago. “Customers can afford the lower cost of the hardware with more flexible and low-cost plans for their needs. Moreover, clients expect satellite to match fibre-optic speed and reliability, and don’t tolerate any glitches. They expect no-fault operations. Xsat Global is gaining clientele by offering flexible plans, with low-cost hardware and 24/7 support.” Hassawi adds: “Businesses are globalised and require connectivity in remote and harsh regions in a quick turnaround time. Du offers an end-to-end portfolio of high quality and performance solutions over VSAT, enabling customers to deliver varied
Meet us at IBC Hall 1 – 1D59 Global connectivity, Local delivery www.eutelsat.com
SatLead
FIGURE 1
UninTenTionAl effecTS of inTerference POWER ASSIGNMENT SOURCING of ANTENNA’s
CONFIGURATION
MISPOINTING
SATEllITES ARE TOO ClOSE
ASI POWER ASSIGNMENT
CONFIGURATION
A VSAT installation done by Xsat Global.
INSTAllATION PROCESS
CROSS-POl
“VSAT offers customers mobility, reliability, rapid deployment of the equipment and allocation of bandwidth based on the requirements. it can accommodate multiple locations and offers flexible plans and reasonable cost to the end-user”
CONFIGURATION
BUC + MOdEM COMBO
SySTEM dESIGN
INSTAllATION PROCESS
UNAUThORISEd ACCESS
GLEB LARIONOV, Managing Director of Xsat Global applications to increase productivity and profitability through IP technology.” InTerference “The managed VSAT solution is a worldclass service. Du is the only operator in the UAE using world-class satellite and radio equipment, ranked as the 12th best teleport in the world, with a full secured network interference,” says Hassawi. However, Larionov says that even though satellites support encryption of all data transmitted between two sites or multiple sites, intentional or non-intentional interference from outside factors is a possibility. A study done by the Satellite Interference Reduction Group (IRG) on VSAT interference showed that co-pol and cross-pol frequencies certainly did cause interference; however, unauthorised access was also high on the list. Mismatched Block Up-Converters (BUC) and modem combination or incorrect installation were also causes. Adjacent Satellite Interference (ASI) also took up a significant fraction of 14 | SatellitePro | October 2014
VSAT interference, primarily caused by satellites being too close together or mispointing (See Figure 1). The IRG recommended specialised training in the configuration, installation, component selection and optimal location to reduce interference. It also said type approval was a crucial component when selecting a combination of BUC, modem, cable and antenna. In fact, local sourcing and approval may not be enough, and instead an approval that is consistent with the system vendor and satellite operator would be the best option. According to Larionov, the future of VSAT will consist of increased speed and bandwidth at lower pricing. Ka-band along with HTS also leads to interesting propositions. Hassawi agrees and thinks “we will see the introduction of new bands and new satellite orbit coverage with lower transmission cost and higher capacity.” He adds that the MENA region is predicted to see the largest Fixed Satellite Service (FSS) Ka-band demand in the world. PRO
Old EqUIPMENT BUC + MOdEM COMBO
SOURCING OF COMPONENTS
SWEEPER
CONFIGURATION
SOURCING OF COMPONENTS
lOCATION OF NEARBy RF SOURCES
INSTAllATION
RETRANSMISSION
CONFIGURATION POWER ASSIGNMENT
SOURCING OF COMPONENTS
INTERMOdUlATION
SOURCE: Satellite Interference Reduction Group
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SatEvents: IBC2014
IBC wrap-Up IBC attracted a total of 55,092 attendees, an increase of 4% on 2013. Attendees from more than 170 countries visited over 1,500 exhibitors. We bring you the highlights
16 | SatellitePro | October 2014
October 2014 | SatellitePro | 17
SatEvents: IBC2014
Intelsat brings Epic-ness to IBC 2014 The growing interest in UHD content was evident during IBC, and Intelsat demonstrated that its existing network is ready to deliver this content to viewers. At the same time, as demand grows and drives up the amount of bandwidth needed for transmission even more, HTS platforms will play an important role in the delivery of these signals. Jean Phillipe Gillet, VP, Europe, Middle East and Africa Sales at Intelsat, said: “We attend IBC every year, and for us this is the main event in Europe. What we are doing this year is really the continuity of what we have done in the past year. A few years ago we introduced the deployment of our next generation satellite, HTS Epic. The first satellite will be launched next year and the following HTS will be launched in 2016. Our focus is to speak with our customers, discuss with them their projects and how we can help them with Epic.” “Our focus is also to discuss with the entire ecosystem, including equipment providers. We very much look at it from the customer standpoint and the various requirements to make it work. That
is another thing we are doing at IBC,” continued Gillet. Gillet also explained that Intelsat is very active in the Middle East. “We see a lot of activity in different verticals. We are
providing services in oil and gas, banking, cellular backhaul and education. We have recently announced a partnership with TeleYemen for VSAT applications in Yemen. There is always a lot going on.”
Arabsat promotes Badr-7 at IBC Arabsat was present at IBC this year, promoting its services both on the soonto-be-launched Badr-7 and the two new satellites that it has planned for Hellas Sat, the Greek satellite company that it acquired last year. Nabil Shanti, CCO, Arabsat, said: “We have made a few steps after acquiring Hellas Sat, since then we have been trying to unify all operating procedures to bring the companies in unison. We are working towards one command centre, and have also ordered two satellites, Hellas-Sat 3 and Hellas-Sat 4. One of
18 | SatellitePro | October 2014
Nabil Shanti, CCO, Arabsat.
these satellites will be launched after two and a half years. This satellite will replace Hellas-Sat 2, and will help increase coverage of Hellas Sat in the region.” Shanti added: “We also have our own satellite, Badr 7, which will be launched by the end of 2015. The satellite will have Ka-band capacity over many different spots, and it will also have two separate spots over the Maghreb area and the Middle East, in addition to separate spots over South Africa.” Hellas Sat also participated at an adjoining booth at IBC.
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October 2014 | SatellitePro | 19
SatEvents: IBC2014
WORK Microwave showcases DVB-S2X modem at show WORK Microwave demonstrated the DVB-S2X IP modem at IBC this year. The device is a future-proof modulator-demodulator solution that maximises flexibility, efficiency and cost savings for satellite operators. Built on new architecture that fully supports the new DVB-S2X standard, the IP modem brings maximum performance to IP trunking and network infrastructure applications, making it the ideal solution for telecommunication companies, internet service providers (ISPs) and teleport operators. “Today’s satellite operators need solutions that will improve their efficiency and lower
Lisa Hayes and Jörg Rockstroh of Work Microwave.
operating expenses,” said Jörg Rockstroh, Product Manager – Modem Technologies, WORK Microwave. “Our new DVB-S2X IP modem helps operators achieve substantial efficiency gains, exceeding the results offered by proprietary systems on the market today. Designed with ease of use in mind, all of the modem’s advanced features are simple to operate for users.”
The DVB-S2X IP modem includes a flexible, software-based platform with real-time monitoring and control capabilities, enabling operators to quickly adapt transmission parameters in order to meet specific customer requirements. The modem’s hardware is completely scalable, making it easy for operators to meet the throughput demands of various applications.
Gulfsat promotes interference free frequency at IBC Gulfsat was present at IBC once again, for the fifth consecutive year. Mohamed Al Haj, Chairman of Gulfsat, said: “This is one of the prime events for us, and it’s crucial for us to be here because we are launching expansion of capacity for the second part of 2015. The capacity covers the popular 7/8 degree West neighbourhood, which covers the entire MENA region. The capacity is interference-free, as was being used
20 | SatellitePro | October 2014
by BeIN sports for the World Cup. In the MENA region there is a lot of demand for anti-jamming frequency, and this is what we are focusing on promoting at the show.” Besides providing exposure for Gulfsat and the promotion of its services, Al Haj added that the operator loves to meet all its clients at the show, and that IBC provides a platform to facilitate this, all in one place.
Mohamed Al Haj, Chairman of Gulfsat.
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October 2014 | SatellitePro | 21
SatEvents: IBC2014
Eutelsat and Media Broadcast ink agreement at IBC Eutelsat and Media Broadcast inked an agreement at IBC for the distribution of satellite-based IP broadcast solution NewsSpotter. Media Broadcast is optimising the NewsSpotter service by linking it with its Broadcast NGN (Next Generation Network) to offer the media industry new options for IP-based data transmissions and digital TV production. It will market the service under the name NewsSpotter+. The NewsSpotter service operates in Ka-band using Eutelsat’s High Throughput KA-SAT satellite for cost-efficient, portable, IP-based Satellite News Gathering (SNG) services. The service uses compact, lightweight and easy-to-carry terminals to enable fast and high quality transmissions from the field. “NewsSpotter+ is something new in the broadcast and media industries. By linking the complete BNS Community (Broadcast Network Services) to this satellite-based, mobile IP broadcast solution for portable
Newtec launches multi-service platform Newtec showed its efficient, flexible and scalable Newtec Dialog multiservice platform at IBC this year. Dialog is a scalable and flexible multiservice platform which allows operators to build and adapt their infrastructure as their business and the satellite market grows and changes. 22 | SatellitePro | October 2014
News Gathering, we are closing a gap in the digital production chain,” explained Bernd Meinl, Head of Broadcast Satellite Services Media Broadcast, at the contract signing. Jean-François Fenech, General Manager Eutelsat Broadband, said: “This agreement with our long-standing partner, Media Broadcast, once again underlines the
“IBC 2014 marks the European launch of our Newtec Dialog platform, which is designed to be used for every type of network: from the very smallest to the very largest, and from single coverage to multispot High Throughput Satellite (HTS) networks,” said Serge Van Herck, CEO of Newtec. The platform is designed to give operators optimal modulation and bandwidth allocation,
critical role that satellites can play for news teams and broadcasters. The NewsSpotter service can be integrated easily into IP infrastructures and offers a wide variety of applications, from coverage of live breaking news to sports and cultural events, and contribution of footage direct from the field to a broadcaster’s master control room.”
regardless of the application it is being used for. Newtec’s engineers have achieved this by inventing a new patented return link technology called MX-DMA, or CrossDimensional Multiple Access. Together with the new HighResCoding (HRC), it combines the best of both worlds. It enables services to run more efficiently than ever before over satellite, while still providing the option to have the platform also run in either SCPC or MF-TDMA.
GSS and Onlime sign capacity agreement
Deepak Mathur, SVP, Commercial, Asia-Pacific and Middle East, SES.
SES-12 creates a stir at IBC SES talked about its hybrid satellite, SES-12, at IBC this year. It will be located at 95-degrees East and launched in 2017. A lot of users in the Middle East, Central Asia, South Asia and all the way to the Pacific use the existing satellite, NSS-6, which will be replaced by SES-12. In addition, SES-12 has High Throughput Satellite payload. Approximately 14GHz of capacity will be added on top of the regular-shaped payload. “What is traditionally done in a high throughput environment is slicing the beam into four, and then you use a four-colour scheme for the entire spectrum. By creating a separation between the beams, you can use the spectrum again. The more complex the geography, the more complex this becomes. The benefit of this is that the same beam can be used many times over. This is great for certain types of applications, yet it is less efficient for others. This is why what we’ve done is said that for part of our spectrum we’re going to have shape beams, and for part, spot beams,” said Deepak Mathur, SVP, Commercial, Asia-Pacific and Middle East, SES. SES-12 will operate in the Ku- and Ka-bands with a total of 76 active transponders, and will be equipped with eight antennas. It will have a launch weight of 5,300kg and electric power of 19kW. It has been designed to remain in service in orbit for more than 15 years.
Gazprom Space Systems (GSS) signed a capacity contract with Onlime during IBC. The contract allows GSS capacity on the Yamal-402 satellite, increasing its Ku offering to address growing demand in Sub-Saharan Africa. Onlime has full Ku- and C-band satellite coverage for VSAT services over the African continent, providing reliable business communications solutions to the enterprise market, whether directly through one of its own offices or via its substantial network of partners and VSAT resellers. Excellent coverage and the reliability of Yamal-402, in combination with its long expected life, make it a good fit for further penetration into many markets within its footprint, allowing small VSAT terminals to be deployed in the majority of locations in Africa. Onlime services include enterprise quality VoIP across Africa.
“We are pleased to sign the contract with such a reputable company as Onlime, for the use of Yamal-402 capacity over Africa allowing them to offer services in many African countries. We intend to further develop the relationship with Onlime in African and Middle East markets,” said Dmitry Sevastiyanov, GSS’ Director General. Paul Ziegler, Onlime’s CEO, said: “Onlime is at the forefront of providing business communications solutions to the enterprise market across Africa that includes satellite- and fibrebased networks, MPLS, VoIP and wireless solutions. The addition of Yamal-402 is part of the network strategy to be able to offer seamless coverage across the African continent to address the needs of the market. We are proud of our partnership with Gazprom and look forward to growing the relationship further.”
October 2014 | SatellitePro | 23
SatEvents: GITEX 2014
24 | SatellitePro | October 2014
Get ready for GITEX 2014 GITEX 2014 is the 34th edition of the home-grown technology exhibition, and will be held at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre from 12-16 October 2014. The show connects domestic and international ICT vendors with more than 142,000 industry professionals from over 150 countries
October 2014 | SatellitePro | 25
SatEvents: GITEX 2014
Ericsson to introduce ‘Life in the Networked Society’ Ericsson will be back at GITEX Technology Week after a five-year hiatus. At Dubai World Trade Centre this year, the telecom vendor will be demonstrating what ‘Life in the Networked Society’ will be like, through interactive demonstrations at its two stands – one in GULFCOMMS, Zabeel Hall, and one in the GITEX Smart Cities pavilion. During the event, Ericsson will demonstrate its innovative solutions, which enable the development of the Networked Society’s smart cities and bring them closer to life. These advanced technologies will showcase how life experiences in a smart city are enhanced through more connectivity, with a particular focus on working
life, city life and home life, allowing people to study, work and live more freely, in sustainable societies. Rafiah Ibrahim, Ericsson’s President and Head of Region Middle East and North East Africa, said: “As a provider of information and communications technologies and solutions, we consider ourselves enablers of the Networked Society. Living in a smart city environment will have dramatic lifestyle benefits for all residents, with a hyper-connected environment that is responsive to our everyday needs. The region is transforming towards the Networked Society through mobility. We are glad to be part of this transformation and showcase our capabilities at GITEX.”
Polycom to showcase RealPresence Studio at GITEX Polycom will be at the 34th edition of GITEX Technology week, where it will showcase its latest portfolio of video and voice collaboration solutions that will create the collaborative workplace for the SMBs, education and healthcare sectors. In addition, live demonstrations of Polycom RealPresence Immersive Studio will be held on the stand. This new offering from Polycom is the next evolution in immersive video experiences and provides a specially designed environment where every detail is perfected to create an excellent visual, audio and collaboration experience. Ramy Alam, Regional Sales Director, Gulf, Polycom, said: “Technology is becoming an omnipresent part of our lives in the UAE and this has given rise to a generation of ‘always-connected’ technology natives. Flexible working provides the opportunity for employees to find a work-life balance that fits their day-to-day routine. In line with this trend, Polycom 26 | SatellitePro | October 2014
will be showcasing its new video and voice collaboration solutions that enable organisations to create collaborative workplaces with invisible innovation.” “GITEX Technology Week serves as the best platform to demonstrate our strengths in open, standards-based voice, video and content collaboration solutions.
These solutions are engineered to create a dynamic collaborative workplace, which can cater to the needs of changing business environments. It also gives Polycom the opportunity to connect with the best minds within the ICT industry in the region and we look forward to another successful year at this event,” he added.
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October 2014 | SatellitePro | 27
SatEvents: GITEX 2014
Etisalat to demo apps and solutions for Smart Cities Etisalat will be present at GITEX Technology Week, and will showcase the unlimited possibilities of a highly connected future and cities of tomorrow, driven by its smart apps and solutions. Etisalat’s transition from a telecom service provider into an integrated service provider reinforces its commitment to lend to the ICT vision of the UAE’s leadership. Etisalat’s network is the enabler, upon which the telco is dedicated to developing and delivering ICT solutions that will connect the nation’s people, businesses and government. Etisalat’s displays at GITEX 2014 will be a window to the future of smart living, enabled by smarter solutions and smarter technologies that will improve the way people live and work. Dynamic and highly interactive zones will provide visitors a hands-on experience in various consumer-
and business-oriented domains. Importantly, the event will become, as it is every year, a platform to network with industry peers and exchange knowledge, ideas and technologies.
Etisalat’s participation will also be dotted with announcements of new partnerships forged with local, regional and international clients and partners.
Juniper Networks brings High-IQ networks to GITEX Juniper Networks will focus on the future of virtualised and cloud network architectures, as well as its strategy for building intelligent and secure High-IQ networks, at GITEX Technology Week. Juniper has vast experience with enterprises and service providers across the Middle East and has established strong links with organisations across the region. Juniper will also serve as Platinum Sponsor of the Cloud Confex on October 13, 2014, when Adrian Pickering, vice president, Middle East & Africa, Juniper Networks, will share Juniper’s vision for ‘Moving Networking to the Cloud Era’. Juniper will also be celebrating a year since the launch of its MetaFabric Architecture – designed to provide an end-to-end next-generation data centre architecture that accelerates the deployment and delivery of applications within and across multiple sites and clouds. In less than a year, over 5,000 customers have adopted MetaFabric Architecture to bridge the worlds of physical, virtual and the future. 28 | SatellitePro | October 2014
Adrian Pickering, Vice President, Middle East & Africa, Juniper Networks, said: “This year’s GITEX promises to be the best yet. As a business, Juniper has undergone many positive changes over the last year and we are now poised to better deliver on our
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SatTechnology
Investing in Satellite Life Extension As satellite operators are challenged to provide enhanced services to their customers at lower cost per bit, a creative approach is required to meet these new economic demands. Business plans include significant investments to finance the satellite build, procure launch services and purchase insurance. Another option is life extension As prices for these items escalate and bandwidth becomes scarce, satellite owner operators can meet the challenge in one of two ways – they can either invest in new high-throughput satellites or extend lifetimes of existing space assets. With the end goal of minimising the cost per bit paid by their clients, some owner operators are choosing to do both. Life Extension refers to the process of lengthening the period of time that an on-orbit asset can be operated in a manner consistent with its intended purpose while staying within its licenced orbital and operational boundaries. Indeed, the intended purpose of the space asset may change over its lifetime and a life-extended satellite may not provide the same revenue opportunities
30 | SatellitePro | October 2014
as originally envisioned, however an attractive return on investment is still possible – especially at the end of life when the asset has been fully depreciated and the only investment “costs” consist of satellite operations and the expense associated with life extension services. A previous paper presented at Space 2014 by this same author provided an overview of “in-orbit servicing” and described in some detail the technical progress made by various commercial companies and USG agencies along that path. The intent of this paper is not to provide an update on that initial overview, but rather to focus on the financial benefits provided by one of these services – specifically “life extension”. After several years of hearing
satellite manufacturers and some in the USG claim that “there is no business case for” and consequently “no interest in” life extension, perhaps it is time for a commercial company to provide an alternative viewpoint. Commercial Options Offered to Provide Lifetime Extension Services Two fundamentally different technologies are being offered to provide life extension services to on-orbit spacecraft. One of the services involves use of an attached tug that replaces the station keeping (orbital control) and momentum dumping function of the host spacecraft. The other service consists of robotic refueling - transfer of liquid propellants from the servicer to the
client allowing the satellite to continue use of its own propulsion and attitude control subsystems. Both of these solutions involve similar orbital rendezvous and docking procedures, however that is where the similarity ends. A) Tug Services Tug services are currently being offered by ViviSat (working with ATK) using a platform they have christened the Mission Extension Vehicle (MEV). The MEV remains attached to the client satellite for as long as the service is required and replaces the ACS (Attitude Control System) functions of the client. Orbital drifts, station keeping functions and momentum dumping become the
responsibility of the tug. The business case is challenging as the MEV must remain attached as a “mass tax� for the life of the contract. The mass tax reflects the reality that the propellant must be burned to maintain both the mass of both the entire tug (laden with its lifetime of propellant) as well as the client satellite. Consequently the business case must cover not only the propellant used to station keep the client, but also the propellant to station keep the mass of the MEV. If a tug service is contracted to reduce inclination, the business case must cover the cost of increasing inclination of the MEV to dock with the client, then return of the combined mass to lower inclination. For the first client
a portion of this cost could be reduced if the tug were launched directly to the higher inclination of the satellite. An overwhelmingly better financial decision would be to attach the MEV before client inclination was allowed to grow. At the end of the MEV service contract, the MEV can simply be detached and drifted to its next opportunity. Residual propellant in the client can then be used to supersynch the spacecraft into graveyard orbit. If the
October 2014 | SatellitePro | 31
SatTechnology
client does not have sufficient propellant or its propulsion subsystem is disabled, the MEV can be used to supersynch the spacecraft–but this also involves the propellant cost of the MEV’s round trip. Satellites which become stranded on orbit, either due to malfunction of the spacecraft or poor management of propellant reserves, might have no alternatives to get to graveyard except by use of a tug. It is highly likely that when tug services are readily available at GEO, satellite operators will be legally obliged to remove their derelict spacecraft to prevent possible collision with other objects. Good stewardship of the space environment could easily be enforced by changes in space law which might prohibit space littering on a go-forward basis. While certainly not part of the business plan for commercial servicing, owner/operator’s decision to NOT purchase an available tug service for removing their debris could be viewed by a court as negligent, and result in significant financial liability if other space assets are placed in harm’s way. Tugs will likely utilise both ion and chemical propulsion systems. Ion systems will be used for delta-V manoeuvres when sufficient time is available to fully leverage its efficiencies. However, if the tug must be drifted in orbit quickly or while in the vicinity of other spacecraft, the higher thrust afforded by chemical thrusters is likely required. This begs the question whether the tugs should be built to be easily refuelled themselves, and might they just buy that propellant from the competing life extension solution – namely robotic refuellers. Due to lower complexity, a tug service would seem to offer a lower risk approach for life extension. Successful tug operations would likely facilitate the development and acceptance of the more-complex refuelling services. Realizing this socialisation issue, robotic programs at both NASA and DARPA have been on-going to buy down the perception of risk. ViviSat recently reported that they had bookings for the first three MEVs. Launched in pairs, it is hoped that the fourth booking will provide sufficient confidence in the financial community to get production into high gear. B) Refuelling Services Considered the “Holy Grail” of in-orbit servicing, refuelling of on-orbit satellites has been the aspiration of USG agencies such as 32 | SatellitePro | October 2014
Heading Satellite In-orbit Servicer (SIS) docked to Client Satellite [MDA].
NASA and DARPA for some time. Refuelling provides a viable life extension solution when the client spacecraft’s propulsion and attitude control subsystems remain intact. It is likely the most efficient way to extend lifetime, as the only “mass tax” left with the client is that of the propellant itself. However, if propellant
“The goal of life extension is NOT to add another 10 years of operations to a heritage 15-year spacecraft – rather to add a few years of life to allow flexibility in fleet planning” is purchased and loaded, the return for that propellant purchased is not realised until that propellant is actually consumed. If that satellite later taken out of service prior to use of that propellant, that investment is lost. Canada’s MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates’ (MDA) Satellite In-orbit Servicer (SIS) robotic refuelling venture was looking very promising when they signed a $280M contract in mid-2011 to provide refuelling services to Intelsat’s fleet of over 50 GEO
satellites. However, the inability to get commitments from other commercial GEO customers stalled MDA’s forward progress. MDA’s technical experience with space robotics had already been well established – building both the Space Shuttle’s “Canada Arm” and the Dexter robot currently being used on ISS. Nevertheless, possible competition from NASA to refuel USG satellites using their own robotic refuelling spacecraft being developed under the RESTORE program appears to have been an issue. In subsequent months MDA elected to “cancel their collaborative agreement” with Intelsat and divert investment elsewhere. In late 2012 MDA completed the purchase of Space Systems Loral – establishing a significant US presence for sales of future services to the USG and mitigating some of the previous ITAR/non-U.S. concerns. Benefit of Life Extension A) Several More Years. Frequently heard in discussions about life extension is that it is risky, too difficult, too expensive, and of little interest because the technology on the older satellites is obsolete and the hardware is at the end of its design life. While this is not true, satellite manufacturers should not feel threatened by life extension. The goal of life extension is NOT to add another 10 years of operations
to a heritage 15-year spacecraft – rather to potentially add a few years of life to allow flexibility in fleet planning. Satellite owner operators will make their decisions based upon business plans, and if the business plans indicate that the latest technology will provide the greatest return, that is the path they will take. Owner operators will purchase the new satellites with the latest technology only when the on-orbit asset is no longer producing or it makes “dollar and cents” for them to do so.
worst-case scenarios and environments. Flight heritage is precious and an entire Technology Readiness Level (TRL) scale has been developed as a measure of flightworthiness to assist in evaluation of survival risk. The future of onorbit servicing is bright but the industry is full of doubters – they will buy into servicing only AFTER it has been proven SEVERAL times on SOMEBODY ELSE’S spacecraft. Disruption of services is a near-sacrilegious event with stiff financial consequences.
Leasat 5 being released from the payload bay of STS-32 in 1990 [NASA].
B) Proven Reliability As described in a report done by the Aerospace Corporation, about 1/3 of GEO satellites are operated well past their 15-year design life. If the heritage technology was obsolete and not able to produce valuable services, this certainly would not be the case. As an example, Intelsat’s Leasat 5 satellite, launched in 1990, was just retired after 24 years of operations. C) Spin-off Benefits Tugs and robotic refuellers can perform valueadded services for new satellites as well as the propellant-challenged older variety. For example, a new satellite getting a marginal drop-off from its launch service might need to make up the delta-V shortfall by using its own on-board propellant reserves. This could leave the satellite with little remaining station keeping life upon reaching GEO. The ability to replace the propellants could bring SIGNIFICANT value to both the owner/ operator as well as the insurance company potentially responsible to pay a claim. The same robotics used to conduct refuelling operations could be used to assist the deployment of a stuck antenna, solar array, or even adjust a loose thermal blanket. Robotic servicers could provide a capability for capture of orbital debris, however, today there is little financial incentive or government regulation motivating investment in a pricy venture to collect yesterday’s space trash. Risks and Security Concerns The space community is justifiably a very conservative group – investments in space assets are huge and on-orbit hardware problems are almost impossible to fix. Spacecraft are frequently designed to survive
Spacecraft are designed to be somewhat resistant to micrometeoroids, but the debris created by a collision at GEO would dwarf the impact from those micrometeoroids. The Space Data Association (SDA) works with commercial operators to track debris (and each other’s satellites) and provides conjunction warnings to the applicable parties when “resident space objects” (RSOs) are predicted to get within some predefined distance of an active
Orbital debris has been a rising concern over the years and a couple of highly destructive events at LEO have fuelled the fire. While the “vastness” of space once rivalled the perspective of the vastness of the oceans, decades of launches left thousands of objects in orbit – mostly at lower altitudes. We would like to believe that an understanding of the uniqueness of geosynchronous orbit would be sufficient justification for every space-faring nation to keep the neighbourhood free of litter – but this has not been the case. In fact, well over half the ~1400 items tracked at GEO altitude are uncontrolled objects. These uncontrolled objects scream North/South through the equatorial plane twice a day, picking up 100 mph closing speed every year. Eventually there will be a collision at GEO that generates many thousands of additional fragments. What is the space community doing about THAT worst-case scenario? Answer is… not enough.
spacecraft. The controlled spacecraft might be manoeuvred to increase the conjunction distance beyond the range of position uncertainty. However, there is also good chance that both objects might be uncontrolled and the collision unavoidable. Could a robotic servicer prevent such a collision by capturing one of these objects prior to the predicted collision? It would be an expensive undertaking but likely less expensive and more practical than NASA’s plan to capture asteroids. What would be the consequence of a robotic servicer (tug or refueller) colliding rather than docking with an active satellite? Would one or both of the spacecraft become disabled? Would the two become entangled? Would a debris field be created? A previous USG rendezvous mission resulted in a low speed collision and both spacecraft survived. The closing rates between a servicer and a October 2014 | SatellitePro | 33
SatTechnology
GEO satellite during the docking procedure are extremely slow – docking simulations and ground testing will assure risk of collisions is minimal. Autonomous procedures kick in automatically to increase the separation in the unlikely event that a command link is lost or the vehicles’ closing rate is too rapid. Maintaining attitude control sufficient to sustain pointing of the client communications antennas is another matter. It is likely that initially there will be a lot to learn regarding optimising the attitude control algorithms of the docked servicer/client composite and that initial missions will not be able to maintain the original “pointing budget” of the client. Is that a risk? - Only if it was unexpected. Risk exists that the client’s propellant valves might not function (or fully reseal) following 15 years of on-orbit dormancy. Those requirements were never part of the original spec for those valves – they were not “designed” to be opened/closed after 15 years exposure to corrosive propellants. Will they function properly? There are a lot of onorbit systems available for a demonstration prior to servicing a high-value spacecraft. It is expected (and likely required) that an onorbit demonstration on a nearly-identically designed satellite will be required before attempting those same operations on a highvalue asset. Does the presence of on-orbit robotic spacecraft represent an anti-satellite (ASAT) threat? Could the robotic spacecraft be used to intentionally disable somebody else’s satellite? The answer is “yes” – and likely the DoD has put a lot of thought into that possibility. But then, any controlled satellite could be intentionally flown “into” somebody else’s spacecraft today – might miss the first few times but eventually contact could be achieved. At high enough speeds it would likely result in mutual destruction. An intentional collision could be executed – just as it could be with airplanes, cars, tanks – even submarines. Could a tug be used to “capture” and relocate somebody else’s spacecraft against their will? Probably so – but the presence of tow trucks on our roads did not result in a rash of car thefts. Providers of on-orbit services will work closely with both USG and international agencies to minimise the concern over this issue. Future satellites will likely include some sort of localised situational awareness sensors 34 | SatellitePro | October 2014
69% of Objects at GEO Altitude Consist of Uncontrolled Orbital Debris STATUS: JAN 8 TOTAL: 1,369
Drift: 662 (48%)
LiBration arounD 75 E: 114 (8%) ControLLED (onLy E-W): 133 (10%)
LiBration arounD 105 W: 46 (3%) LiBration arounD tWo points: 18 (1%)
ControLLED (E-W anD n-s: 289 (21%)
intErminatE: 20 (2%) highLy inCLinED: 9 (1%)
unControLLED (no tWo-LinE ELEmEnts: 78 (6%)
[ESA/SpAcENEwS]
– this might not prevent tampering problems but certainly could provide attribution. Intentionally approaching another nation’s military satellite is already the equivalent of violating territorial waters, and intentionally harming that nation’s satellite could be construed as an overtly hostile act. This makes robotic capability in space a very sensitive international issue. Conclusion The perspectives provided in this paper for life extension on EOL spacecraft provide sufficient justification for both refuelling and tug services. The business cases definitely provide sufficient ROI (return of investment) to move forward if the satellite can be put back into its operational role. Building a business case for servicing problems that have not yet occurred (BOL anomalies) is a challenge, but waiting until the anomaly has already occurred before launching a solution will not provide sufficient responsiveness to be practical. If interest rates increase (likely with the devaluation of the U.S. dollar on the world market) the business case for life extension of EOL satellites will only improve. From the perspective of the owner/ operator, the business case for life extension by either refuelling or tug services does appear compelling. However, the advantages
of slightly lower cost of refuelling services is detrimental by the perception of higher risk (due to increased complexity) and the absence of a service provider actively selling these services today. Satellite owner operators, in general, are a conservative community and hesitant to take any chances with space assets. For revolutionary concepts like in-orbit servicing, they will tend to sit on the sidelines watching to see what happens and will jump in only after it has been proven by somebody else. Intelsat has openly been a notable exception – advocating on a continuing basis regarding the benefits and needs for in-orbit servicing by our space community and, in fact, being the first major operator to contract for these services. It is expected is that once the technology has been sufficiently socialised and proven on-orbit, the remainder of commercial industry will be swift to fully leverage the possibilities. PRO Whitepaper by Dr. Bryan L. Benedict, Product Line Manager, Commercial and Civil Hosted Payloads, Intelsat General Corporation. Dr. Benedict is also a member of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA)
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October 2014 | SatellitePro | 35
SatStudy
Making the right switch Airbus Defence & Space chose Newtec Dialog as the satellite comunications platform to expand its Terralink satellite connectivity service portfolio. Terralink has now experienced a boost in service flexibility and link efficiency towards service providers and end-users
ŠAirbus DS
36 | SatellitePro | October 2014
Airbus Defence & Space, a provider of satellite communication solutions for land, maritime and government customers, has opted for Newtec Dialog as the platform for its Terralink satellite connectivity service portfolio. Airbus delivers voice, broadband data, value-added services and solutions across five continents. Its wide range of managed services and mission-critical communications are covered by stringent Service Level Agreements needing a high level of operational excellence. At the same time the company is faced with ever-evolving market requirements and the need to make more efficient use of the space segment. The global fixed VSAT network, serving enterprise and government customers, operates out of several teleports and has remote VSAT terminals deployed all across the globe. The new services available from Airbus Defence & Space using Newtec Dialog connect organisations locally and cross-border in private networks or to the public internet, enabling use of email, web browsing and IP applications, ensuring business connectivity wherever they are based. The service areas include the Middle East, Europe and Central Europe with Ku-band services; and Africa and Asia Pacific are covered with C-band services.
“Airbus selected the Newtec Dialog platform as it is the most future proof technology available. It enables a variety of services on a single platform, providing the required scalability and flexibility” Upgrading the Customer Experience Airbus wanted to expand its Terralink satellite connectivity service portfolio. Terralink delivers reliable satellite connectivity to a large range of enterprise customers, including those operating in the humanitarian, mining and energy sectors. It provides reliable and secure voice and data communications in locations where terrestrial communications infrastructure is not available or is of poor quality, and is also used as back-up for mission-critical networks. This expansion of Terralink is the latest product innovation within AuroraGlobal, the company’s strategic satellite communications services portfolio providing highly flexible and efficient satellite links to a diverse customer
base. Airbus is the first to use the eagerly awaited Newtec platform to achieve its goals. Future Proof Technology Airbus selected the Newtec Dialog platform as it is the most future proof technology available. It enables a variety of services on a single platform, providing the required scalability and flexibility. At the same time, Newtec Dialog assures cost optimisation of the required space segments by using the most optimal modulation and bandwidth allocation technologies, including Newtec’s patented Mx-DMA technology. The new services offer a significant boost in service flexibility and link efficiency towards service providers and end users. Due to faster and smarter data processing, new coding, and compatibility towards various technologies, more can be sent and delivered through the satellite link. A Technological Partnership Airbus and Newtec also established a broader technological partnership where the complementary strengths of both companies will drive further improvements for the mobility and mission-critical satcom market. The first Airbus customer to benefit from the improved end-user and service
October 2014 | SatellitePro | 37
SatStudy
management experience offered by Newtec Dialog is one of the world’s largest humanitarian organisations. The unique scalability and combination of satellite technologies catered for by the new platform means that organisations of many different shapes and sizes will benefit. It also positions Airbus as the ideal connectivity solution for customers with low to very high bandwidth per link requirements. The network hubs are now installed and operating in several Airbus-owned teleports worldwide. The service areas include Europe, Central Europe and the Middle East with Ku- band services and Africa and Asia Pacific covered with C-band services. Next Generation Service Terralink is designed for small to large VSAT corporate networks requiring a high quality service with dedicated bandwidth or guaranteed data rate (committed information rate, CIR) and bursting capabilities to meet periods of high demand. It features customised service plans from 10 kbps up to 45 Mbps (outbound) and from 10 kbps up to 8 Mbps (inbound), with unlimited
Serge Van Herck, CEO of Newtec (left), and Erik Ceuppens, Head of Satellite Communications Airbus Defence and Space, agree on future cooperation.
“With Newtec Dialog, Terralink enables services to run more efficiently than ever before over satellite and allows the same core platform to be used for customers of any size and network requirements”
data volume allowance. Additional packages will be launched in the near future. AuroraGlobal is the global portfolio of multi-band satcom services for government, maritime and enterprise markets, bringing all satellite frequencies and capabilities into one network, providing service providers and customers with variety of choice. With this portfolio, Airbus provides customers with throughput comparable to next generation services, today. With Newtec Dialog, Terralink enables services to run more efficiently than ever before over satellite and allows the same core platform to be used for customers of any size and network requirements. This is made possible by using the most optimal return bandwidth allocation technologies, including well-known SCPC, MF-TDMA and Mx-DMA return technologies, all on the same platform. Mx-DMA incorporates the best features of MF-TDMA and SCPC technologies and at the same time solves the difficult choice of selecting one or the other. Additionally, the latest modem allows transmission changes without traffic interruption or loss of data, which improves the link availability and reduces latency. PRO
©Airbus DS
38 | SatellitePro | October 2014
SMi’s 16th Annual
CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION 2014
Europe’s Leading Military Communications Event for Satellite Professionals Tuesday 4th November - Thursday 6th November | Park Plaza Riverbank Hotel | London, UK
NEW SPEAKERS FOR 2014
Lieutenant Colonel Cem Sinan Barim, Chief of SatCom Management Center, Turkish Armed Forces
Lieutenant General (Rtd) Anil Chait, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, ADC, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff Chairman, Government of India Ministry of Defence
Dr Lieutenant Colonel Cihan Ercan, TAF Satellite Project Officer, Turkish Armed Forces
MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT SPEAKERS
Deanna Ryals, Chief MilSatCom International, MilSatCom Directorate, U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Abde Bellahnid, Directorate of Joint Capability, SatComs & SAR Requirements, Canadian Department of Defence Colonel Pierre Mattei, Aerospace Engineering Coordinator, ITA, Brazilian Armed Forces Michael Rupar, Branch Head, Transmission Technology Branch, U.S. Naval Research Laboratory Maximiliano Erazu, SAOCOM Communications System Engineer, CONAE Lieutenant Commander Owen Gee, C4/EW Requirements (Maritime), New Zealand Defence Force Colonel A.S Kattala, Tanzania People's Defence Force Commodore David Greaves, Commander Defence Strategic Communications, Royal Australian Navy
Colonel Christophe Debaert, Head of Syracuse Programme, DGA France Colonel Volker R. Quante, Project Leader SatComBW, The Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) Captain Cataldo Lombardi, Navigation, Surveillance and Communication Satellite Systems, Director, Teledife Segredifesa, Italian Ministry of Defence Colonel Eric E Nicanor PN(M)(GSC) Commander, Naval Communications Electronics and Information Systems Center, Philippine Navy Colonel Atogeba Alobawone, Director Communication, Directorate of Defence Communication and Information Systems, Ghana Armed Forces
PRE-CONFERENCE WORKSHOPS | 3RD NOVEMBER 2014
A
8.3012.00
Role of Satellite in Operational Situational Awareness - Latest Technological Trends
B 13.0017.00
Satellite Interference - Technology and Tools Hosted by Martin Coleman, Executive Director, Satellite Interference Reduction Group
Hosted by Vladimir Stoiljkovic, Business Development Manager, Satellite Applications Catapult SPONSORS
LEAD SPONSOR
MEDIA PARTNER
EXHIBITORS
To keep updated with programme developments or to reserve your place, please visit:
www.globalmilsatcom.com Global MilSatCom Community
#GlobalMilSatCom
October 2014 | SatellitePro | 39
SatGuest
Satellite Interference –
The Effect on Broadcasters and COTM Satellite Interference is an issue that affects the entire industry. In reality, it is minimal; however, for those affected by any disruption of service, it is not ideal We are seeing increased competition from OTT delivery with more and more consumer demand for the best and fastest service possible. Coupled with the high demand for live coverage, where broadcasters gather feeds from a multitude of locations, this means that we, the industry, need to ensure that it is never affected by satellite interference and thus safeguard our operations. At Inmarsat, we have had a cellular structure as standard for maritime coverage and using closed loop system technology since the beginning of BGAN operations in 2005 has helped us keep tight control on all carriers and we have suffered less interference than would otherwise be expected. However, up until now this has been a unique advantage to Inmarsat where the majority of satellite operators do not have that luxury! That said, I certainly wouldn’t want to get complacent, which is why we are also heavily involved with industry associations combating interference, including the Global VSAT Forum (GVF) and the Satellite Interference Reduction Group (IRG), whose next workshop we are hosting at our headquarters in London in October. Over recent months and years, there have been a number of successes in the fight against satellite interference. Thanks to IRG, and others within the industry, we now have a Carrier ID standard and a number of resolutions from the World Broadcasting Unions - International Satellite Operators Group (WBU-SOG), which will help to push the implementation right through the chain. Inmarsat has begun that process,
40 | SatellitePro | October 2014
“A lot of the initiatives will only be successful if satellite users get on board, which is actually easier, not to mention cheaper, than many of our users realise” mARk STEEL, Director, User Terminal Development, GX, Inmarsat as have many other satellite operators, which will certainly help ensure a better environment for all satellite customers. However, now that process has begun, we need to work on the next steps of interference mitigation. A lot of the initiatives will only be successful if satellite users get on board, which is actually easier, not to mention cheaper, than many of our users realise. For CID, for example, many of our users already have CID within existing encoders and modulators, so in those cases it is simply a question of checking with your manufacturer, or reviewing the list on
the IRG website (http://satirg.org/ resources/cid-ready-products/). If you have it installed, let us know and switch it on! That way, we can then see instantly which carrier is correct and ensure we stop interference almost as soon as it occurs. In addition at Inmarsat, we already insist that all our users have type-approved equipment, which adheres to the GVF Quality Products Framework and Inmarsat’s own tough requirements. The more users adhering to such standards, the more interference due to faulty equipment will reduce, as this is one of the main causes. However, another important role for satellite users is to ensure their operators, uplinkers and users have proper training. For broadcasters in particular, the IRG’s End User Initiative (EUI) Advisory Committee has joined forces with GVF to develop equipment operator certifications, which can be taken online and are inexpensive, especially compared to the difference it will make to your operations to have trained staff, causing fewer errors. The group also offers a range of free documentation, aimed at helping users ensure they are not causing interference. GVF itself also provide in-depth training for VSAT Systems. Whilst we encourage users to take advantage of these initiatives, we, the satellite industry, and those industry groups, will focus our efforts into future improvements we can make using technology, processes and education. In the meantime, take a look, it is easier than you think! PRO
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