MODULATION CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE TRANSMISSION OF REAL-TIME SPACE TELEVISION

Abstract

Modulation considerations for the design of a real-time space/earth television link were treated. To illustrate two extremes of transmission possibility, the baseband signal was assumed: (1) digitally encoded and modulated on a carrier as binary PCM/PM; and (2) analogue modulated as wideband FM. Standards of quality established for the design of each system were then used to estimate receiver power requirements. The performance and complexity of these two approaches were then reviewed with parameters typical of a moon mission. In comparing the digital to the analogue approach, it was found that the analogue system was superior in all respects, e. g., simplicity, reliability, and spacecraft power. Identical comparisons as the foregoing were necessary to establish the modulation techniques for Telstar and Relay, the world's first wideband communication satellites. It is not surprising, therefore, that these satellites utilize analogue wideband FM with frequency-following receivers.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 01, 1963
Accession Number
AD0406315

Entities

People

  • Jean A. Develet Jr.

Organizations

  • The Aerospace Corporation

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Analog Systems
  • Artificial Satellites
  • Bandwidth
  • Communication Satellites
  • Communication Systems
  • Continents
  • Digital Communications
  • Digital Television
  • Frequency
  • High Definition Television
  • Power Levels
  • Space Communications
  • Space Systems
  • Spacecraft
  • Television Systems
  • United States

Readers

  • Radio communications and signal processing.
  • Space Exploration and Orbital Mechanics.
  • Theoretical Analysis.

Technology Areas

  • Space