Methods comprising satellites having a regenerative payload, onboard computer, payload interface and interference elimination system

Abstract

Systems and methods of satellite communications for moving terminals, including but not limited to on-the-move and mobile terminals (e.g., on-the-pause terminals), are implemented in certain embodiments using smaller antennas (e.g., aperture area with diameter less than 50 cm), open standard waveforms to secure availability from several suppliers, payment for service only when using the terminal, interference avoidance to adjacent satellites, and low cost. Low cost is achieved in part by operating at frequency bands that are currently operated by terrestrial microwave links so that existing low cost microwave components are utilized. The system also includes an interference elimination system that continuously monitors for interference to adjacent satellites from a user terminal's uplink signal. If interference is detected, the interference elimination system remedies the interference by performing one or more of the following: shutting down the interfering terminal(s), changing transmission parameters, changing the beam coverage on ground, changing the frequency of the affected traffic, or moving the satellite to a new orbital position. The interference elimination system may also transit the interference information to a control center.