Hybrid Satellite-Terrestrial System

Telecommunication networks of the future are believed to involve systems that will work on different technologies, such as WiFi, WiMAX, 2G/3G, LTE, and satellite. In order to efficiently orchestrate the working of the different technologies, the idea of hybrid networks is being seriously considered. The chief driving factor is to facilitate and then exploit the cooperation of different wireless communication systems (segments) to provide varied range of services to users in the most efficient and seamless way, taking into account signal quality (coverage), traffic congestion conditions, and cost issues. Hybrid networks have the ability to be an efficient and cost-effective solution to employ satellite communications for not only broadcast and multicast services but also for mobile services. The intrinsic capabilities of satellite networks, for instance very large coverage areas, speed of implementation and inherent multicasting and broadcasting capabilities make them the prime choice to serve niche areas like coverage in planes, navy ships, hostile environments etc. Despite all this, satellite systems suffer from many drawbacks such as technological complexity, high costs, and deep fading at high frequencies. Therefore, the idea of jointly benefiting from the advantages and capabilities of both terrestrial and satellite telecommunication systems is gaining much impetus. In particular, the satellite network can provide the best and most comprehensive coverage for low-density populations, while the terrestrial network or the ground component can provide the highest bandwidth and lowest cost coverage for high-density populations in urban environments.