Placeholder alt text
Found inTech Focus Report

Orbit Communication Systems Revolutionizes Connectivity with Multi-Band and Multi-Orbit SATCOM and Earth Observation Systems

Leading innovator introduces game-changing multi-band and multi-orbit solutions for maritime and ground applications July 24th, 2023
Picture of Orbit Communication Systems
Orbit Communication Systems

Orbit Communication Systems, a pioneering company with a track record spanning over seven decades, continues to innovate and expand the possibilities of connectivity. Known for its provision of cutting-edge maritime and airborne SATCOM terminals, tracking ground station solutions, and mission-critical airborne audio management systems, Orbit has unveiled its latest breakthrough: tri-band communication systems.

In an era where connectivity is the core of industries and government authorities across the globe, Orbit recognizes the need for advanced solutions that meet the demands of today and anticipate the challenges of tomorrow. By integrating Ka-band technology, Orbit's tri-band communication systems offer unparalleled advantages, particularly for the New Space era.

Ka-band, a key component of Orbit's multi-band Satellite Communication systems, is poised to become the predominant frequency band for high-volume data delivery for Earth Observation applications. By embedding this technology into Orbit's systems among other bands in a single system, the company ensures that its clients will remain at the forefront of the connectivity landscape, equipped to handle the ever-increasing demands of data-driven industries.

One of Orbit's standout offerings in the tri-band systems lineup is the well proven Gaia100 product line, with an exceptional 3.7-meter Earth Observation Ground System. With more than a hundred systems installed worldwide in harsh environmental conditions, this systems enables LEO satellite data transfer for multiple space agencies and Ground Station Antenna as a Service (GSaaS) companies around the globe. With the inclusion of S-, X-, and Ka-band frequencies, the Gaia100 empowers users to download high data rate information in unprecedented volumes and unparalleled quality. This groundbreaking system enables operators to track Earth Observation Satellites in all three frequency bands, positioning them at the cutting edge of observation satellite and GSaaS markets.

One notable benefit of the Gaia100 solution is its ability to allow new space ground station operators to utilize the same ground station for existing satellites in the S- and X-bands while simultaneously preparing for future Earth Observation satellites in the Ka-band. This presents a significant advantage as it ensures compatibility with both current and upcoming satellite technologies, providing a forward-looking approach for operators.

Furthermore, Orbit's solutions, including the Gaia100, are already compatible with the specific demands of LEO satellite networks. The Gaia100 S/X/Ka-Band Tri-Band Tracking System is designed to receive data from Earth Observation satellites in S-band, X-band, and Ka-band frequencies. With a 3.7 meter diameter antenna enclosed in a radome for harsh environments, the Gaia100 offers exceptional tracking performance and the ability to communicate with current and future LEO.

Commenting on the significance of the Ka-band capability, Daniel Eshchar, CEO of Orbit, emphasized its growing importance and future potential.

Eshchar highlighted, "Ka-band is becoming more and more essential for high-volume data delivery, and in the near future, it is expected to become the main frequency band for data download in Earth Observation new space satellites. As a company committed to constant innovation, we are proud to offer solutions that cater to the ever-increasing market's needs."

Placeholder alt text
OceanTRx™ 7 Multiband 2.2 m (7.2’) Multiband Stabilized Maritime VSAT System

Identifying the need for multi-band and multi-orbit technologies in maritime systems Orbit also developed its innovative OceanTrx family of SATCOM systems for both commercial and military naval platforms. The OceanTRx-MIL Four-Band (X/Ku/Commercial Ka- and Military Ka-bands) is Orbit Communication Systems’ latest development in its extensive and varied Maritime Satcom product line.

The OceanTRx-MIL Four-Band solution has been specifically designed to meet the precise requirements of naval forces. It seamlessly combines a state-of-the-art RF design with a robust pedestal design, drawing on Orbit's extensive experience in the field. This integration ensures maximum operational flexibility over LEO, MEO, GEO and HEO satellites while minimizing the physical space required on the vessel.

The Four-Band feed architecture is based on a Tri-band X/Commercial Ka/Military Ka feed integrated with an additional Ku-band horn. The selection between the Ku-band horn and the X/Ka feed is made electrically using a band rotator mechanism. In addition to the X/Ka feed solution, Orbit has supplied a Tri-band system with Ku-/Commercial Ka-/Military Ka-bands feed, enabling its customers to operate the system in both bands simultaneously, if needed. Under this simultaneous configuration, it is possible to receive and transmit without degradation in performances (i.e., the same EIRP and G/T as single band configurations). Orbit’s system allows both high bandwidth with two bands simultaneously that can be used for classified and unclassified communication links, and band redundancy with fewer systems on board saving real estate on the vessel. The four bands feed provides outstanding worldwide coverage capability.

The antenna and RF chain are installed on the OceanTRx-MIL pedestal. The system is MIL-STD 810/461/167 qualified and can operate with full performances up to sea state 6 (depending on the vessel size).

Placeholder alt text
OceanTRx 4MIL 1.15m (4’) Ruggedized Maritime VSAT System

Orbit has established itself as a market leader in designing sophisticated antenna and RF subsystems and advanced tracking algorithms. Orbit’s product lines leverage its core competencies in hardware and embedded software. They are highly engineered to operate in the challenging environmental and operational conditions faced by its global defense/government and commercial customers. Orbit’s customers constantly provide challenges to develop more complex, compact, and comprehensive broadband solutions to support the communication applications and services they require in their operational challenges.

With its commitment to innovation, Orbit Communication Systems has already anticipated the demand for communication solutions compatible with the evolving requirements of Low Earth Orbit satellite networks. By designing its systems to adapt to the unique characteristics and demands of LEO satellite networks, Orbit is at the forefront of providing cutting-edge connectivity solutions that meet the needs of tomorrow. This forward-thinking approach positions Orbit as a trusted partner for industries seeking seamless integration with LEO satellite networks.

Learn more about Orbit Communication Systems at orbit-cs.com