Mobile Satellite Communications Handbook, 2nd Edition

Appendix II

Background Statements by the International Telecommunications Union on Mobile Satellite Communications Frequency Assignments 1996, 1997, and 2000

1996

The International Telecommunication Union's (ITU's) first World Telecommunication Policy Forum (WTPF) will focus on mobile satellite systems (MSS), otherwise known as Global Mobile Personal Communications by Satellite (GMPCS).

These systems are not like the satellites that have traditionally handled telecommunications and broadcasting traffic. They are based on a new type of satellite technology, and are referred to in the industry as “Big” and “Little” low earth orbit (LEO) systems. LEO satellites are relatively small, and are located in orbits much closer to the surface of the earth than a traditional communications satellite. The advantage of this is that they are able to receive signals from devices as small as a pocket-sized mobile phone.

In general, two different types of system are being proposed by a number of, mostly private, organizations. Little LEO systems will use small satellites measuring around 1 m³, and will provide mobile data and messaging services. They will be used for data gathering, electronic facsimile, two-way paging, and electronic mail. Big LEO systems are larger satellites which will provide some or all of these services in addition to real-time voice. They will be used to provide global ...