Abstract: A satellite radioterminal communications system may include first and second space-based components and a return link diversity combiner. The first space-based component may be configured to communicate uni-directionally and/or bidirectionally with a first radioterminal over a first forward link using a first band of frequencies and/or over a first return link using a second band of frequencies. The second space-based component may be configured to communicate uni-directionally and/or bidirectionally with a second radioterminal over a second forward link using a third band of frequencies and/or over a second return link using a fourth band of frequencies. The second space-based component may also be configured to receive return link communications from the first radioterminal over the first return link using the second band of frequencies, and the first and third bands of frequencies may be different bands of frequencies.

Abstract: An antenna assembly, and an associated method, facilitates communication of a radiotelephone operable in a satellite communication system, such as a satellite-cellular communication system. A patch antenna is rotatably coupled to a radiotelephonic housing of the radiotelephone. The patch antenna exhibits circular polarization characteristics, best to detect and to transmit communication signals to a satellite-based transceiver. By positioning patch antennas at opposing sides of the radiotelephone, down-link signals transmitted to the radiotelephone are detectable irrespective of the orientation of the radiotelephone.