INTERSPUTNIK's development prospects on the eve of the XXIst century

Abstract

The Moscow-based INTERSPUTNIK International Organization of Space Communications is an international intergovernmental organization using a global satellite communications system. It was founded in 1971 in order to provide services to any users without discrimination or limitation of rights including cases when a customer is a member or user of a different international satellite communications system. At present there are 23 member-countries and more than 100 users, state and private companies. INTERSPUTNIK provides satellite communication services, including television, telephony, data transmission, videoconferencing, VSAT etc., both in analog and digital modes. The Organization provides communication in global, regional and domestic networks, having South and South-East Asia, Russia and other CIS countries, Central and Eastern Europe as principal users. Broadcasting and telecommunication companies as well as service providers are among the principal users of INTERSPUTNIK. The INTERSPUTNIK system consists of a space segment, which includes communication satellites owned by the Russian Federation (like Gorizont, Express, Gals) and a ground complex, which includes Earth stations owned by states or recognized operators. At present, there are more than 70 stations, located in different parts of the world, operating in the INTERSPUTNIK system.