PCS global mobile satellites

As the new era dawns in wireless information systems, mobile satellite services (MSS) are emerging as an integral component in what has become the turn-of-the-century global communication network, It is generally agreed that the universal personal communication paradigm is the confluence of terrestrial-based and satellite-based systems. PCS users will neither know nor care if their calls are being carried by satellite or cellular. Unlike their terrestrial-based counterparts, the MSS, with their global blanket coverage, are truly able to realize the vision of communications from anywhere at any time for people on the move. The MSS are also being used in developing countries without existing wireline networks to provide rapid, ubiquitous telephone service. This article provides an overview of mobile satellite systems and concepts. The materials presented are geared toward a broad audience with engineering or management backgrounds.