Program Overview

Introduction to the Satellite Communications Program

The Satellite Communications program is designed to provide students with a broad background in satellite communications, including technology, markets, and planning. The program aims to equip students with detailed skills in the planning process, enabling them to design satellite communications systems for prescribed quality of service and understand the business planning relevant to modern satellite systems.

Program Details

• Program Name: Electronic Engineering (by short course) MSc
• Module Code: EEEM046
• Module Name: SATELLITE COMMUNICATIONS S
• Credits: 15
• ECTS Credits: 7.5
• Framework: FHEQ Level 7
• Module Cap: N/A
• Semester: 1

Module Overview

The module provides a good understanding of modern satellite communications and the ability to design such systems. It covers the expected prior/parallel learning of BEng-level understanding of telecommunications systems.

Module Provider and Leader

• Module Provider: Computer Science and Electronic Eng
• Module Leader: SUN Zhili (CS & EE)

Student Workload

• Independent Learning Hours: 90
• Lecture Hours: 30
• Tutorial Hours: 10
• Guided Learning: 10
• Captured Content: 10

Module Content

The module content includes:

• Introduction to Satellite Systems
• Satellite Systems Planning
• Regulation of the Spectrum
• Modulation, channel coding, and advanced air interfaces
• Payload Engineering
• Digital Broadcasting
• Multiple access schemes
• Earth station engineering
• VSAT & BB access systems
• Networking and IP over satellite
• Digital Broadcasting by satellite
• Mobile satellite systems
• Military satellite systems
• High throughput satellite (HTS)
• Small satellite systems
• Satellite System futures

Assessment Pattern

• Assessment Type: Coursework and Examination
• Weighting: 30% for Coursework, 70% for 2-Hour Invigilated Exam (Open Book)

Alternative Assessment

N/A

Assessment Strategy

The assessment strategy is designed to provide students with the opportunity to demonstrate the learning outcomes. The written examination will assess knowledge and assimilation of terminology, concepts, and theory in satellite communications system design and business processes.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completing this module, students will have a good understanding across the field of satellite communications, its technology, techniques, markets, and business. They will be able to plan satellite communications systems for prescribed quality of service and understand the business planning relevant to modern satellite systems.

Methods of Teaching and Learning

The learning and teaching strategy is delivered by means of student attendance at a one-week short course involving both intensive lectures and project work, supplemented by subsequent private study.

Reading List

Available upon accessing the reading list using the module code: EEEM046

Other Information

The role of telecommunications in the economic development of nations is undeniable, and satellites are an important part of today's telecommunication infrastructure. The program highlights the importance of decision-making and problem-solving in designing a satellite communication link, optimizing parameters for given constraints such as quality of service, throughput, and coverage.

Programmes this Module Appears In

• Programme: Electronic Engineering (by short course) MSc
• Semester: 1
• Classification: Optional
• Qualifying Conditions: A weighted aggregate mark of 50% is required to pass the module