Emerging satellite communication links of incompatible polarization via wavefront multiplexing techniques

Many fixed satellite service (FSS) transponders in Ku band belong to the family of linearly polarized (LP) space assets. Therefore the terminals in the FSS-covered service areas also use linear polarization. In this paper, we propose, on the other hand, that circularly polarized (CP) terminals are more economical in manufacturing and installations as comparing to compatible LP terminals. The presented techniques will enable satellite operators to cost-effectively service Ku band VSAT users, either fixed or mobile, via LP space assets in Ku band. A method that makes possible the emergence of multiple g r o u p e d LP satellite transponders through Wave-Front (WF) Multiplexing (muxing) techniques is presented. Grouped LP transponders become accessible efficiently by CP ground terminals and vice versa. This method consists of a polarization converting processor in a ground hub with our modifications of ground user equipment and satellite assets. The received waveforms are processed in the digital domain in order to further service intended ground terminals. A low cost test bed is developed to emulate satellite links and implement WF muxing and WF demultiplexing (demuxing). We present both simulation and experimental results to demonstrate the satellite communication links of transponders and ground terminals using incompatible polarization respectively.