Systems and Methods for Communicating with Satellites Via Non-Compliant Antennas

Abstract

A system and method allow end users the ability to operate using non-compliant antennas. A coordination database may be continually updated with respect to geographic coordinates, time planning, frequency and orbital positions. Further, the system and method may utilize a tool for easily calculating interference resulting from the use of non-compliant antennas. These components, amongst others, spot possible slots in the frequency spectrum for non-compliance operations. A device may be integrated into terrestrial terminals to perform a sound, realistic and up-to-date interference calculation for equipment in a particular environment. The device may determine the level and extent of safety for operating the equipment in the particular environment.

1 - 9 . (canceled) 
     
     
         10 . A method to allow users to communicate with satellites using a non-compliant antenna system, comprising the steps of: supplying an operator data concerning the non-compliant antenna system; scanning for satellite capacity; pointing a terrestrial terminal's antenna towards a target satellite; transmitting geoposition data to a software engine; and conducting an interference calculation to determine whether the terrestrial terminal can safely operate. 
     
     
         11 . The method according to  claim 10  wherein the data concerning the non-compliant system comprises at least one of the group consisting of (i) antenna geometry, (ii) antenna design, (iii) measured radiation patterns, (iv) radio frequency equipment information, (v) frequency, (vi) power levels, (vii) bandwidth, and (viii) waveforms. 
     
     
         12 . The method according to  claim 10  wherein the scanning for satellite capacity occurs on a link budget and non-interference basis. 
     
     
         13 . The method according to  claim 10  further comprising the step of transmitting a confirmation signal from the software engine to the terrestrial terminal if the terrestrial terminal can safely operate. 
     
     
         14 . The method according to  claim 10  further comprising the step of transmitting a denial signal from the software engine to the terrestrial terminal if the terrestrial terminal cannot safely operate. 
     
     
         15 . The method according to  claim 13  further comprising the step of continuously conducting interference calculations. 
     
     
         16 . The method according to  claim 15  further comprising the step of sending a shut down command to the terrestrial terminal if an interference calculation determines the terrestrial terminal cannot safely operate.