Satellite links for all

Popular music can be distributed on the Internet, but downloading is a hundred times faster via a satellite link.

This has been demonstrated by the UK-based Abaris company, with ESA sponsorship. The telecommunications programme stimulates the use of satellites for multimedia e-commerce.

Mobile links are another theme, and for two decades Europe has provided satellites for the Inmarsat organization, communicating with ships scattered across the oceans. Professional users, such as TV and oil companies, tuned into Inmarsat.

Advances in satellite technology (e.g. with ESA’s Artemis, 2001) open the door wider. Expect more satellite terminals on cars, trucks, trains and boats!