Abstract: A method for shifting communications of a terminal located on a moving platform from a first satellite beam to a second satellite beam comprises determining a time for initiation of a beam shift from the first satellite beam to the second satellite beam; executing a first beam shift from the first satellite beam to the second satellite beam; and executing a second beam shift from the first satellite beam to the second satellite beam, wherein the first and second beam shifts are performed using a switch matrix.

Abstract: A satellite communications apparatus including an antenna assembly having: a directional antenna arranged to receive signals from and transmit signals to a satellite, an electronic motor arranged to adjust at least one of a position and orientation of the directional antenna; and a sensor arranged to detect the position and orientation of the directional antenna. An RF interface, in communication with the antenna, is arranged to receive the received signals from the directional antenna. A controller, in communication with the RF interface, is arranged to: i) measure a gain associated with the received signals during a first time interval, ii) receive the detected position and orientation of the directional antenna during the first time interval, and iii) send a control signal to the electronic motor to adjust the position and orientation of the directional antenna to limit a decrease in the measured gain to less than a threshold.