Coverage Extension via Side-Lobe Transmission in Multibeam Satellite System

In this paper, we study feasibility of coverage extension of a multibeam satellite network by providing low-rate communications to terminals located outside the coverage of main beams. Focusing on the MEO satellite network, and using realistic link budgets from O3b networks, we investigate the performance of both forward and return-links for terminals stationed in the side lobes of the main beams. Particularly, multi-carrier transmission for forward-link and single carrier transmission for return-link are examined and the resulting coverage and data rate for different setups are evaluated. Simulation results verifies that side-lobe transmission can extend the coverage area and provide considerable data rate, thereby providing a solution for enhancing capacity of existing networks.