Abstract: A method of incrementally increasing a revenue stream generated by an incrementally built satellite communication system comprising the following steps: (A) planning an initial constellation phase of the satellite communication system to cover an initial predetermined coverage area; (B) building the initial number of satellites for the initial constellation phase of the satellite communication system; (C) launching each satellite to fill the initial constellation phase of the satellite communication system; and (D) collecting an initial revenue stream generated by the initial constellation phase of the satellite communication system. The initial constellation phase of the satellite communication system comprises an initial number of satellites and is substantially completed to carry an initial communication traffic for the initial predetermined coverage area. The initial revenue stream can be used for building the subsequent phase of the planned satellite communication system.

Abstract: A method of incrementally increasing a revenue stream generated by an incrementally built satellite communication system comprising the following steps: (A) planning an initial constellation phase of the satellite communication system to cover an initial predetermined coverage area; (B) building the initial number of satellites for the initial constellation phase of the satellite communication system; (C) launching each satellite to fill the initial constellation phase of the satellite communication system; and (D) collecting an initial revenue stream generated by the initial constellation phase of the satellite communication system. The initial constellation phase of the satellite communication system comprises an initial number of satellites and is substantially completed to carry an initial communication traffic for the initial predetermined coverage area. The initial revenue stream can be used for building the subsequent phase of the planned satellite communication system.

Abstract: Apparatus and method of using satellite ranging channels for transmitting 3-d video signals for space applications.

Abstract: The disclosed deployable lattice column includes a plurality of longeron elements connected together and reinforced by lateral elements including both diagonal members and battens. The diagonal members are formed of rigid elements thereby maintaining the stiffness of the lattice column when deployed, even when torsional loads are applied to the column.

Abstract: The disclosed deployable lattice column includes a plurality of longeron elements connected together and reinforced by lateral elements including both diagonal members and battens. The diagonal members are cross-connected between laterally opposed points along the longerons and define a bay of the column by the spacing of their attachment points. Adjacent bays of the column substantially overlap each other. By this overlapping relationship, should one of the diagonal elements fail, the strength of the column is substantially maintained by the adjacent, overlapping diagonal elements. Preferably, the longeron elements are integral, coilable elastic members.