EGERTON UNIVERSITY EEE 567 - SATELLITE ENGINEERING SEPTEMBER 2024 - DECEMBER 2024 SENATE APPROVED SYLLABUS

PURPOSE  

This course provides an introduction to the fundamental principles and technologies of satellite communication systems. Topics covered include satellite orbits, link budgets, modulation and coding techniques, multiple access schemes, satellite transponders, earth station design, satellite networking, and current trends in satellite communication.

EXPECTED LEARNING OUTCOMES

By the end of this course unit, the student should be able to: 

1. Grasp the fundamental concepts and principles of satellite communication.

2. Analyze satellite orbits and understand their impact on communication system performance.

3. Design and evaluate satellite communication systems, considering architecture, link budget, and modulation techniques.

4. Conduct link budget analysis for satellite communication, accounting for various factors influencing signal quality.

5. Implement and analyze communication protocols used in satellite systems for error correction, encryption, and data compression.

6. Operate and manage earth stations and ground segment components in satellite communication networks.

7. Stay abreast of emerging technologies and applications in satellite communications.

COURSE CONTENT

Introduction to Satellite Communications: Historical overview of satellite communication, Role of satellites in modern telecommunications, Satellite communication applications and use cases.

Orbital Mechanics and Satellite Orbits: Basic principles of orbital mechanics, Types of satellite orbits (LEO, MEO, GEO), Impact of orbital parameters on communication system design.

Satellite System Architecture: Satellite design and construction, Payload configuration and functionality, Ground station components and satellite operations.

Link Budget Analysis: Components of a link budget, Signal propagation considerations, Antenna gain, system noise, and power budget analysis.

Modulation and Multiple Access Techniques: Modulation schemes in satellite communication, Multiple access techniques (FDMA, TDMA, CDMA), Spread spectrum and advanced modulation techniques

Satellite Communication Protocols: Error correction techniques in satellite communication, Encryption methods for secure communication, Data compression protocols.

Earth Stations and Ground Segment: Design and operation of earth stations, Ground segment components and functions, Satellite communication network architecture.

Emerging Technologies and Applications: Advances in satellite design and technology, Inter-satellite communication and satellite constellations, Small satellite systems and their applications.

Regulatory and Legal Considerations: International regulations governing satellite communication, Licensing and frequency allocation, Legal considerations and spectrum management.

Case Studies and Project Work: Analysis of real-world satellite communication systems, Project-based assignments involving system design and optimization, Case studies on successful satellite communication deployments

INSTRUCTION METHOD

The mode of delivery shall be face to face (lectures, tutorials, group discussion, workshops/seminars, demonstrations, assignments), e-learning and blended learning. 

ASSESSMENT

Regular Examination at end of Semester: 70 %

Continuous Assessment: 30 % 

COURSE TEXTBOOKS  

1. "Satellite Communications" by Timothy Pratt, Charles W. Bostian, and Jeremy E. Allnutt

"Communication Satellite Antennas: System Architecture, Technology, and Evaluation" by

Robert Dybdal

2. "Satellite Communications Systems: Systems, Techniques and Technology" by Gerard Maral and Michel Bousquet

3. "Understanding Satellite Communications" by Elbert, Bruce R.