SATELLITE-COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM STRESSES FLEXIBILITY, RELIABILITY

A satellite communications system, which will operate between a stationary offshore platform and company offices ashore, is described. The system will have twelve voice-frequency channels which will provide voice, data, and facsimile capabilities. This satellite system avoids the channel congestion of conventional radio, overcomes the limitations of VHF radio operations, and eliminates the need for microwave relay stations to offshore facilities. Specific features of the offshore terminal and the satellite itself are described, and the cost of the system on a per month per channel basis is also given.