Overview of satellite systems -- Orbits and launching methods -- The geostationary orbit -- Radio wave propagation -- Polarization -- Antennas -- The space segment -- The earth segment -- Analog signals -- Digital signals -- Error control coding -- The space link -- Interference -- Satellite access -- Satellites in networks -- Direct broadcast satellite (DBS) television -- Satellite mobile and specialized services.

Highly regarded for more than a decade as both a teaching text and professional tutorial, this classic guide to satellite communications has been revised, updated, and expanded to cover global wireless applications, digital television, and Internet access via satellite. In-depth, textbook-style coverage combined with an intuitive, low-math approach makes this book particularly appealing to the wireless and networking markets New to this edition: Global wireless services, including 3G; Antenna Options, Error Coding.