A comparison framework for MSSs

Satellite networks can provide the possibility to access communication services on wide areas of the earth; this characteristic coupled with the support of user mobility allows satellite networks having unique features well suited for different scenarios, like: land mobile, aeronautical, maritime, transports, rescue and disaster relief. Mobile satellite networks, however, entail crucial technological challenges, such as: link budget, antenna technologies for both the satellite and the mobile terminal, and efficient utilization of the radio spectrum. This paper investigates these aspects and provides an analytical framework that can be used to evaluate the characteristics of satellite networks in the design phase as well as for their operational phase. In particular, quantitative comparisons are presented here for different systems in terms of supported user density, bandwidth efficiency, and mobility aspects.