Fundamentals of Satellite Engineering & Communications

Course Overview

This course provides a comprehensive exploration of satellite engineering with a focus on communications systems. It covers the full satellite lifecycle from design considerations to in-orbit operations, with special emphasis on communications payloads, link design, and navigation technologies. Through practical case studies and hands-on exercises, you'll develop the skills needed to work effectively in the satellite industry.

What You'll Learn

Module 1: Satellite System Architecture

• Satellite classifications and missions
• Major subsystems and their interfaces
• Design constraints and trade-offs
• Current industry trends and innovations

Module 2: Orbital Mechanics for Practitioners

• Orbit types and selection criteria
• Orbit determination and propagation
• Station-keeping and orbital maneuvers
• Constellation design principles

Module 3: Satellite Communications Fundamentals

• RF communications principles
• Link budget analysis and design
• Modulation and coding techniques
• Multiple access methods (FDMA, TDMA, CDMA)

Module 4: Communications Payloads

• Transponder architectures
• Antenna systems and beam forming
• Onboard processing technologies
• Payload-bus interfaces

Module 5: Ground Segment Engineering

• Earth station design
• Network architectures
• Signal processing techniques
• Automation and remote operations

Module 6: GNSS Technologies

• GPS, Galileo, GLONASS, and BeiDou systems
• Signal structures and processing
• Augmentation systems
• Receiver technologies and integration

Module 7: Emerging Satellite Communications

• High-throughput satellites
• Optical communications
• Inter-satellite links
• Low Earth orbit constellations
• 5G integration with satellite networks

Case Studies

The course features in-depth analysis of real-world satellite missions including:

• Starlink constellation deployment and operations
• Inmarsat Global Xpress high-throughput system
• European Data Relay System (EDRS)
• Small satellite communications innovations

Practical Exercises

You'll gain hands-on experience with:

• Satellite link budget calculations
• Orbit determination software
• Communications system simulation
• Ground station operations procedures

Career Applications

This knowledge is directly applicable to roles in satellite operators, spacecraft manufacturers, ground segment providers, and regulatory agencies. The course material bridges theory and practice, preparing you for the technical challenges of the modern satellite industry.