Orbital Research LNBs and global SATCOM networks
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Why network groupings matter in SATCOM
Is there more to selecting and integrating satellite communications hardware than simply picking the right frequency band or connector type? The answer is yes. This is because every network operates in a unique context: different orbits, coverage patterns, capacity, and mission goals. These differences can influence everything from your link budgets to future-proofing, and issues of latency and interoperability.
For engineers, integrators, and procurement teams, it’s essential to understand how networks are grouped – by orbit, purpose, and technology. The right match helps ensure that terminals, gateways, and other ground systems work seamlessly with their intended satellites. The wrong match, on the other hand, can lead to degraded performance, missed coverage windows, or costly redesigns.
In other words, network groupings are more than a just reference list. In this rapidly-evolving sector, they’re a tool for evaluating compatibility, managing risk, and planning for upgrades.
Grouping satellite networks
Some of the key variances in satellite networks include orbital regimes, frequency bands, and mission profiles. When you map these differences out, it makes it easier to assess what your SATCOM hardware can and cannot support – whether you’re upgrading an existing installation or building something entirely new.
Below is a quick-reference guide to major satellite systems, organized by orbit, application, and examples of Orbital Research products that can be used in these applications.
Satellite systems by network grouping
|
Network Category |
Representative Systems |
Applications |
Use With Select Orbital Products |
|
LEO (Low Earth Orbit) |
OneWeb, Lightspeed, Starlink, Kuiper, Mangata, AST SpaceMobile |
Next gen comms; low latency; fast-moving constellations |
|
|
MEO (Medium Earth Orbit) |
O3b, mPower |
High-capacity comms |
|
|
GEO (Geostationary Orbit) |
ViaSat, Anik (incl. Anik G1), XTAR-EUR, Skynet 5, Spainsat, SICRAL, Syracuse III, DSN-2, GovSat-1 |
Commercial, broadband and high throughput satellite (HTS) |
|
|
microGEO |
Astranis, Anuvu, Orbith, Aurora |
Micro sized satellites for Ka- and Ku-band |
|
|
EO (Earth Observation) LEO |
Sentinel, Landsat, WorldView, Radarsat, GHGSat, ICEYE, Planet, COSMO-SkyMed, TerraSAR-X, TanDEM-X, Paz |
Radar and optical systems |
X-band Earth Observation LNB - Superior – Orbital Research Ltd. or K-band LNB for Earth Observation - Superior – Orbital Research Ltd. |
|
EO GEO |
Meteosat, GOES, INSAT, Himawari, Fengyun |
Optical and multi-spectral imaging from Geostationary Orbit for continuous CONUS coverage |
X-band Earth Observation LNB - Enhanced – Orbital Research Ltd. |
|
WGS and MIL |
WGS (Wideband Global SATCOM) |
X- and Ka-band GEO satellite constellations operated by US Spaceforce and Allied Militaries |
X-MIC External Reference X-band LNB with Internal Isolator – Orbital Research Ltd. or Ka-band LNB with Multiple Local Oscillators – Orbital Research Ltd. or Wideband Ka-band LNB - Enhanced – Orbital Research Ltd. |
|
Global Express |
Inmarsat 5 F1, F2, F3 & F4 |
Commercial Ka-band HTS satellite with option to be switched to WGS backup |
694XA Ka-band LNB with Fixed LO – Orbital Research Ltd. or Ka-band LNB with Multiple Local Oscillators – Orbital Research Ltd. or Wideband Ka-band LNB - Standard – Orbital Research Ltd. |
Designing for network flexibility
Orbital Research develops SATCOM hardware that can smoothly integrate with networks across these categories. Our Low Noise Block Downconverters (LNBs) and range of other components are available in multiple frequency band options, LO configurations, and monitor-and-control interfaces. This flexibility allows customers to match the exact requirements of their mission. This could be X-band for Earth Observation downlinks, Ka-band for high-throughput broadband, or Ku-band for transportable terminals.
Our base hardware is designed to be network-agnostic, however we provide configurations tailored to each network. Where a multi-orbit, multi-network solution is required, we can provide one, or customize for your individual requirements. Our designs have been engineered for ultra-low phase noise and noise figure, exceptional linearity and enhanced MTBF and ruggedness. These are qualities that matter whether equipment is installed on a GEO gateway, mounted on a shipboard terminal, or deployed at a remote EO ground station.
Supporting mission success
From WGS-compatible military terminals to high-capacity commercial gateways, Orbital Research works with customers to configure products for their specific range of target networks. Our engineering team collaborates closely with end users, ensuring every unit is optimized for its environment and validated to meet operational requirements.
Our products are designed to perform across a range of core sectors. From low-latency LEO constellations to secure GEO military systems, Orbital hardware meets the global needs of earth observation operators, military communications programs, commercial broadband providers, and much more.
Ours is one of the most vital and fast evolving sectors, both in and out of this world. When the right hardware is matched to the right network, it can mean the difference between dependable connectivity and operational setbacks.
Have questions? Contact us.