For the first time, a live demonstration of an ESA terminal was performed on an Inmarsat operational GX satellite.
Israel-based satellite networking technology company Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. has announced the successful test of its Electronically Steered Antenna (ESA) over Inmarsats Global Xpress (GX) network. The test was performed on Inmarsat-5 F1 satellite at 62.6 degrees East. Gilats self-pointing antenna logged-on automatically to the GX network, supporting bi-directional real-time communication in both fixed and dynamic antenna positioning modes. Beam steering under the changing elevation and skew angles was done while managing the power spectral density (PSD) threshold, in order to minimise interference with neighbouring satellites, in accordance to regulations.
Speaking about the test results, Roni Stoleru, Vice President Antenna Products & Strategy at Gilat commented: We are delighted to partner with Inmarsat, for yet another industry first, demonstrating our proven ESA technology on their Global Xpress constellation. Having integrated Gilats ESA with Inmarsats G-MODMAN further emphasises Gilats ESA leadership and readiness for commercial deployment.
Jerome Soumagne, Chief Engineer, VP Networks at Inmarsat added: The seamless integration of our G-MODMAN with Gilats antenna control system, via standard open interfaces, is a key enabler to demonstrate the ability to support Electronic Steered Array Technology in Inmarsats global satellite network.
This was the first time a live demonstration of an ESA terminal was performed on an Inmarsat operational GX satellite.
