Satellite networking course
Free, self-paced modules that take you from what a satellite network is to how 3GPP non-terrestrial networks and direct-to-device work.
Module 1: Satellite Networking Foundations
Core building blocks: what a satellite network is, orbit mechanics, and spectrum planning.
- What a Satellite Network Is
- Orbit Basics: GEO, MEO, LEO
- Spectrum and Frequency Planning
- Payloads, Beams, and Capacity
Module 2: How Satellite Services Work
Access models, packet paths, ground infrastructure, and real-world service categories.
- Access Models: Relay, D2D NTN, Backhaul
- Life of a Packet
- Ground Segment and Gateways
- Use Cases, Players, and Constellations
Module 3: Why NTN Now?
The convergence of standards, chipsets, regulation, and coverage gaps driving NTN adoption.
- The Global Coverage Gap
- 3GPP Standardization Push
- Smartphone Chipset Evolution
- Regulatory Momentum
Module 4: D2D / Direct-to-Cell Explained
How direct-to-device NTN works, key players, architectures, and current performance reality.
- What Direct-to-Device Means
- Transparent vs Regenerative Architectures
- Key Players
- Phone Compatibility
- Current Performance Reality
Module 5: Regulatory and Standards Primer
ITU, WRC, 3GPP releases, national regulators, and spectrum sharing challenges.
- ITU and WRC Cycles
- 3GPP Release Timeline for NTN
- National Regulators and D2D Licensing
- Spectrum Sharing Challenges
Module 6: The Cutting Edge
Optical links, space data centers, launch economics, AI in orbit, and the mega-constellation race.
- Optical Inter-Satellite Links
- Data Centers in Space
- Launch Economics and Mega-Constellations
- AI and Satellite Networks
- Competitive Landscape: LEO Mega-Constellations
- Space Sustainability and Orbital Debris
Module 7: Anatomy of a Satellite
A guided teardown: the bus, the payload, power and propulsion, antennas and lasers — and what happens from factory floor to fiery deorbit.
- The Two Halves: Bus and Payload
- Power, Propulsion, and Staying Alive
- Antennas: Dishes, Phased Arrays, and Lasers
- A Satellite's Life: Factory to Fireball