KRYPTON: a low cost satellite communication concept

Abstract

Coverage results are shown for an inclined, elliptic low-altitude 36-satellite system (KRYPTON). This concept would be competitive with other low-altitude satellite concepts in the high-density North Atlantic and North Pacific communication routes, but at lower cost. It may be expanded to a 72-satellite system which offers excellent coverage in the Northern Hemisphere, and competitive coverage from Tierra del Fuego to Greenland. A brief comparison to the Globalstar proposal is also presented. Interim segments of 18 KRYPTON satellites are seen to be useful.<>