Communication system employing space-based and terrestrial telecommunications equipment
US5793813A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 6, 1996 |
| Grant date | Aug 11, 1998 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 6, 2016 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01S2205/002
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A communications system employing a telestation that uses a computer to provide command and data handling, a GPS receiver to provide position, time, and attitude information, and a transceiver to provide two-way wireless digital communications. The computer is coupled to an instrument, measuring device, or payload, and is controlled to relay data generated thereby to a user. Commands and data are uplinked and downlinked to the telestation by way of a satellite network, such as a Globalstar network. The telestation provides a user with real-time command and control of globally distributed instruments. This capability may be used terrestrially for gathering information (e.g., science, environmental, etc.) in remote or inhospitable locations, or where logistical support is inadequate. An in-orbit version may be used for spacecraft or satellite instruments 15, allowing investigators instant access to the instruments during all phases of a mission.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.