Space-borne
Satellite communication networks utilize space-borne platforms which include low Earth orbiting (LEO) satellites, medium Earth orbiting (MEO) satellites, and geosynchronous Earth orbiting (GEO) satellites.
Table Matrix
| GEO (35,786km) | MEO (8000 to 20000 km) | LEO (500-2000KM) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Altitude latency | High | Low | Very low |
| Earth coverage | Very large | Large | Small |
| Satellites required | Three | Six | Hundreds |
| Data gateways | Few fixed | Regional flexible | Local numerous |
| Antenna speed | Stationary | 1-hour slow tracking | 10-minute fast tracking |
| Advantages | High throughput (HTS) technologies enable basic broadband internet applications | Proven low latency comparable to terrestrial networks, offers fibre-equivalent performance | Claims support for high-frequency trading, virtual gaming, and high-performance computing applications |
| Fewer satellites over very large fixed geographical areas | Simple equatorial orbit covers 96% of global population | Smaller, lower power satellites batch-launched more cheaply than GEO | |
| Disadvantages | High altitude and distant ground networking impacts latency-sensitive applications | Dual tracking antennas required to maintain continuous connectivity | Very complex tracking and ground network, plus complete constellation must be in place before service starts |
| Signal power losses require larger satellites and antennas | Inclined plane orbits needed to cover high latitudes | Unproven business model, risky technology, and space debris risk |