SkyEdge IV Aquarius is an ultra-high-performance family of VSATs designed for operation over next-generation Very High Throughput Satellites (VHTS) and GEO and Non-GEO (NGSO) constellations. The Aquarius family of VSATs was designed to support flexible satellites servicing multiple fixed and mobility applications such as broadband, 4G and 5G backhauling, commercial maritime and cruise ships, corporate enterprise services and heavy connectivity trunking links.

The Aquarius VSAT family is designed to provide uninterrupted service, supporting next-generation software-defined satellites. Aquarius enables seamless operation, “make before break” NGSO satellites handover, switching between GEO and NGSO or between different GEO satellites. To provide continuity of service for these use cases, Aquarius is equipped with dual transmit/receive interfaces and fast adaptive reconfiguration capabilities on both the forward and return channels supporting satellite on-the-fly changes.

The VSATs exhibit ultra-high processing capacity, achieving above 2Gbps aggregated throughput and high packets-per-second processing.

Benefits

• Ultra-high throughput and high PPS family of VSATs
• Designed for ultra-high data intensive applications such as: 4G/5G and WiFi backhauling, oil and gas and high-end enterprise applications, land and maritime mobility, and high-end cruise ships
• Software-defined programmable VSAT for seamless operation over legacy and next generation flexible satellites
• Multi-Orbit (GEO/NGSO) “make-before-brake” satellite handover
• Integrated MEF based Layer-2 services
• High-performance Air Interface – DVB-S2X and Gilat TDMA and Elastix-SCPC (eSCPC)
• Open standard interfaces for Antenna (OpenAMIP) and BUC (OpenBMIP)

The Aquarius family of VSATs include:

• Aquarius Pro – a telco-grade, rack-mounted VSAT ideal for high- end mobility and backhauling services
• Aquarius-e – suited for backhauling, broadband and enterprise services
• Aquarius Outdoor – a rugged, all-weather VSAT solution perfect for harsh, unattended environments for fixed sites and maritime mobility

The Aquarius family of VSATs is compatible with SkyEdge IV.

The Capricorn Family consists of high-performance, highly efficient VSATs ideal for vertical markets that demand high throughput and high-speed services, such as 4G/5G cellular backhauling, mobility, enterprise and IP trunking. Designed to work with high throughput satellites, Capricorn’s adaptive transmission technologies maximize performance, improve service availability and reduce operational costs.

For cellular backhauling, Capricorn includes Gilat’s patented embedded cellular data acceleration technology that enables full LTE speeds for cellular handheld devices using TDMA and Elastix-SCPC transmission. Based on the latest-generation multi-core ARM technology, Capricorn provides high-speed services of up to 400Mbps in the forward direction and up to 100Mbps in the return direction. For IP trunking and mobility, Capricorn delivers acceleration and PPS performances that support hundreds of users per VSAT. Capricorn also provides virtualization with Multi-Access Edge Computing (MEC) infrastructure.

To ensure fast running of applications, web browsing and a high-quality user experience, Capricorn contains a full set of protocol optimization and application acceleration features, including TCP, HTTP and GTP protocol acceleration, compression and embedded web caching technologies over Layer 2 and Layer 3. In addition, Capricorn ensures full resource utilization under any link conditions and service needs.

Capricorn Family VSATs support the latest authentication and encryption protocols for optimal security, with X.509 terminal authentication and AES-256-bit link layer encryption with dynamic key rotation to protect all user traffic.

Key Features and Benefits

• Up to 400/100Mbps service for data-intensive applications such as cellular backhaul, mobility enterprise and IP trunking
• Compatible with 5G infrastructure
• Highly efficient, requiring less satellite capacity for more sites with more throughput
• Supports the latest authentication and encryption protocols for optimal security
• Full resource utilization under any link conditions and service needs
• Patented embedded multiple protocol acceleration over Layer-2 and Layer-3 topologies
• Virtualization with Multi-Access Edge Computing (MEC) infrastructure

The Capricorn Family of VSATs include:

• Capricorn-4 – Compact unit installed on the customer’s premises
• Capricorn-Pro – Telco-grade, rack-mounted VSAT for easy installation
• Capricorn MEC – Telco-grade, rack-mounted VSAT supporting Mobile Edge Computing (MEC)
• Capricorn Outdoor – All-weather VSAT solution

Capricorn 4 VSAT is compatible with SkyEdge II-c and SkyEdge IV.

The Elastix-Architecture of SkyEdge IV provides the following major benefits to satellite operators:

• Efficient Scalability – SkyEdge IV’s Elastix-Architecture enables the platform to scale efficiently based on aggregated capacity of the network regardless of specific beam coverage, bandwidth and/or peak throughput. Scaling is based on aggregated capacity with the smallest footprint possible, while capacity is added only as network utilization increases. This ensures accommodation of day-one operation over a large coverage area, scaling up with increased bandwidth, an increase in users and expanded geographic coverage, as well as support during the network maturity phase and accommodation of ongoing, changing demands.

• Dynamic Capacity Steering based on Demand – SkyEdge IV’s Elastix-Architecture allows dynamic capacity steering of resources between beams to answer real-time changes in terminals throughput demand over specific geographic locations. No longer will it be required to allocate the maximum needed carrier size and compute power ahead of time. SkyEdge IV allows seamless dynamic carrier reprogramming in perfect coordination with the satellite to accommodate real time changes in user demand.

Benefits:

• Software-defined ground segment maximizing the value of software-defined satellites
• Streamlined lifecycle management & orchestration via open platform interfaces
• Leverages cloud technologies maximizing operational efficiency and network agility
• Supports next generation VHTS and NGSO constellations
• Flexible scalable architecture with unprecedented density to support any network size and operational model with minimum footprint
• Rich feature set for any application, fixed or mobile
• Diverse modems optimized for specific markets
• Investment retention with backwards compatibility to SkyEdge II-c VSATs and unified management for SkyEdge IV and SkyEdge II-c

The SkyEdge II-c VSAT network platform supports multiple applications such as in-flight connectivity, broadband consumer access, cellular backhaul and enterprise, thus enabling satellite service providers to support diverse markets. Powered by Gilat’s distributed and flexible X-Architecture, the scalable SkyEdge II-c platform consists of a high performance hub system, a family of mission-specific VSATs and a comprehensive network management system. (SkyEdge II is end-of-life.)

The SkyEdge II-c hub system is designed to maximize service uptime while simplifying your network operations. It includes an advanced, compact single-beam C-Chassis and/or a high-density, multi-beam X-Chassis. An advanced network management system, TotalNMS, enables full configuration, control and monitoring of all hub elements and remote terminals. SkyEdge II-c allows service providers to streamline service fulfillment while minimizing network downtime and troubleshooting.

SkyEdge II-c delivers innovative transmission technologies with exceptional performance and space segment efficiencies. Wideband DVB-S2X carriers in the forward direction and adaptive transmission in the return direction, enable high on-the-move service availability and maximum bandwidth efficiency at any condition – at beam peak, beam edge, at fade and at different traffic demands. This is achieved by adaptive power control, changes to the carrier symbol rate, ModCod and spread-spectrum factor per VSAT on a per time-slot basis.

SkyEdge II-c meets the needs of any satellite network operator, whether you’re increasing your range of services, your network’s data traffic, or the frequency bands, carriers, satellites or satellite beams to which you connect.

SkyEdge II-c enables full automation of service activation, helping you to simplify network operations with reduced OPEX. Service activation comprises antenna pointing, RF certification & auditing, and optional ISP authentication.

Key Features and Benefits

• Versatile platform supporting multiple applications
• Powered by Gilat’s scalable and flexible X-Architecture
• Compact single-beam C-Chassis and/or a high-density, multi-beam X-Chassis
• Family of VSATs optimized for specific markets
• Unified and centralized NMS

Gilat is meeting the demands of the New Elastix Space Era with its next-generation technology, SkyEdge IV, that accurately and efficiently focuses resources on actual demand with minimal costs. This transformation addresses the major satellite industry challenges of requiring higher network capacity, at a lower cost, with ensured availability, lower latency and higher throughput per user.

Elasticity in satellite communication is more crucial than it’s ever been before. Having the ability to adapt, expand and deploy network resources in real-time is no longer a future promise but an absolute necessity to maximize the capabilities of next-generation satellite technology. More specifically, space and ground segment satellite communication providers are developing solutions that work in harmony, being dynamic, programmable, streamlined, efficient and scalable.

SkyEdge IV’s Elastix-Architecture is an evolution of the X-Architecture, taking Gilat’s extensive experience in designing, implementing and deploying satellite communication ground stations and expanding it to meet today’s new capabilities.

Gilat’s Elastix-Architecture, as implemented in SkyEdge IV, is built around 4 basic dimensions that are key to next generation satellite communication:

• Cloud-Based Ecosystem
• Multi-Orbit Satellite Constellations
• Software-Defined Satellites
• Elastix-Access

Gilat’s Elastix-Architecture is designed to enable customers to promote next-generation core technologies like 5G and cloud and will enable satellite operators to expand their business into new markets.

SkyEdge IV’s distributed Elastix-Architecture with software-defined based orchestration is the ideal solution for maximizing throughput over software-defined satellites with a scalable sophisticated infrastructure.

The Elastix-Architecture allows for simplified management and orchestration by the Elastix-TotalNMS centralized management system. Gilat’s network management system is built utilizing its proven expertise in satellite network monitoring, control and configuration management.

View the Elastix-Architecture infographic:

Or watch our video here.

For more information, contact us at info@gilat.com or here.

X-Architecture for SkyEdge II-c is a distributed VSAT ground segment architecture that unleashes the potential of your satellite network. Using this architecture, SkyEdge II-c is able to cost-effectively address service providers’ current and future needs with one platform that supports both fixed and mobility satellite communications applications.

Gilat’s X-Architecture supports new business opportunities while keeping in mind evolving market needs. The architecture is optimized for high throughput satellites (HTS) and maximizes flexibility to work in conjunction, when necessary, with traditional wide beam satellites in any frequency band: C, Ku and Ka.

With a scalable, cloud-based design, X-Architecture offers a migration path to Software Defined Networking (SDN) and Network Functions Virtualization (NFV). This advanced architecture frees you to grow your business with a network specifically designed to address tomorrow’s opportunities.

The ground infrastructure can be located in multiple sites to best fit your network design. The servers can be located at the gateway location or in separate data centers, depending on terrestrial network availability and operational costs. The network is easily controlled by TotalNMS, Gilat’s global and centralized network management system. TotalNMS enables full configuration, control and monitoring of all hub elements and remote terminals, regardless of their physical location.

X-Architecture enables multiple business models for Virtual Network Operators (VNOs). The service easily scales with minimal equipment for as many VNOs as required. The architecture has been designed with utmost flexibility and unprecedented density, thus saving rack space and power.

Key Features and Benefits

• Optimized for HTS
• Integrated and redundant hub chassis system provides high-availability service and reduces rack space and power – up to 6Gbps and 30 VNOs
• Highly scalable VSAT system supports any number of frequency bands, carriers, satellites or satellite beams
• Cloud-based distributed architecture for more flexibility and scalability
• 1:n inter-beam redundancy

Today’s satellite networks are more powerful and capable than ever before. However, as networks become more complex – with potentially thousands of fixed and mobile customer sites spanning multiple gateways, satellites and beams – managing them becomes more and more challenging.

Such sophisticated networks enable more diverse services, leading to much more complex network management. Operators need a tool that will simplify their operation, reduce their costs and improve their customers’ experience. They need TotalNMS by Gilat.

Gilat TotalNMS is a comprehensive management system for SkyEdge II-c platforms, enabling satellite network operators to rapidly introduce services, effortlessly maintain the network, and optimize network resource utilization.
TotalNMS is designed with the flexibility to support networks of any size, as well as supporting dynamic business models such as hosting of shared infrastructures for virtual network operators (VNOs).
TotalNMS incorporates a complete set of network management functions in one simplified interface. It streamlines service fulfillment and assurance operations to save time, reduce costs, and better serve operators’ business needs.

Key Features and Benefits

• Task-based user interface
• Agile network configuration Effective service assurance
• Advanced mobility services
• Flexible wholesale business models
• Facilitated process automation
• Always-on service availability

New next generation Very High Throughput Satellites (VHTS) and Non-Geostationary Satellite Orbit (NGSO) constellations bring massive bandwidth, scale and service flexibility, leading to more powerful and capable satellite networks than ever before. These networks provide unparalleled agility and enable demand-based bandwidth delivery where and when it is needed.

However, as networks expand globally, in bandwidth, number of subscribers and with the introduction of new satellite constellations and software-defined satellites, efficient network management becomes more and more challenging. For that, Gilat developed the industry’s most advanced, smart network management system for software-defined satellites and multi orbit ground systems – the Elastix-TotalNMS.

Elastix-TotalNMS is a microservice based cloud-native application featuring standard interfaces to next generation satellite resource managers and service orchestrators. With a modern, state-of-art architecture, Elastix-TotalNMS is best equipped to support high availability and scalability as well as automation and a rich portfolio of services in multi-orbit networks deployed with both SkyEdge-IV and SkyEdge II-c platforms. 

Benefits:

• Smart management of multi-orbit networks and software-defined satellites
• Integrates with Satellite Resource Managers (SRM) and service orchestrators, utilizing standard REST interface and Kafka Big Data Streams
• High scalability and availability with a cloud-native microservices-based Kubernetes architecture
• Concurrent operation with SkyEdge IV and SkyEdge II-c deployments
• Seamless and quick multi-orbit, beam and satellite handover
• Rich service portfolio accommodates all MNO, Telco and ISP needs

View the Elastix-TotalNMS infographic:

For more information, contact us at info@gilat.com or here.

To establish continuous, reliable and quickly deployed broadband communications, Satcom On-the-Move (SOTM) is often the only choice.
The RaySat SR300 antenna is compact, lightweight and ruggedized. It features a reliable, two-way antenna system that enables real-time broadband satellite communications across Ka and Ku frequencies, primarily for voice, video and data.

Low-Profile and Easy to Install

The RaySat SR300 antenna features an advanced flat panel array which covers both the Rx and Tx bands. Minimal size, weight and power consumption (SWaP) permits installation on small vehicles or marine vessels.  The antenna’s light weight ensures easy and safe mounting for quick and easy operation by non-technical personnel.

The antenna features multiple onboard tracking sensors, enabling accurate tracking, short initial acquisition and instantaneous reacquisition.

 Modem Options

For maximum flexibility, the SR300 can be deployed in 3 ways:

•  Integrated modem, including seamless mechanical integration of Gilat’s GLT1000 modem.  This allows for operation in low SNR conditions.
• Gilat modem, as part of Gilat’s SkyEdge II-c mobility modem, taking advantage of its management and mobility support.  
• 3rd party modem, if it is OpenAMIP v1.17 certified.  When integrated with 3rd party modems, the antenna is supplied with an Antenna Control Unit (ACU). 

Satcom On-The-Move (SOTM) is a superb alternative for establishing continuous, reliable, quickly deployable broadband communications anywhere.

The RaySat ER5000 antenna is a low-profile, lightweight, ruggedized two-way antenna system that enables real-time Ka- and Ku-band satellite communications for video, voice and data. Its sturdy structure and small size allow implementation on a wide range of vehicles.

Maximum Throughput

The RaySat ER5000 antenna maximizes throughput using high-efficiency waveguide panel technology. It features multiple onboard tracking sensors, which enable accurate tracking, shortest initial acquisition and instantaneous re-acquisition time after signal loss.

Modem Options

For maximum flexibility, the ER5000 can be deployed in 3 ways:

• Integrated modem, including seamless mechanical integration of Gilat’s GLT1000 modem.  This allows for operation in low SNR conditions.
• Gilat modem, as part of Gilat’s SkyEdge II-c mobility modem, taking advantage of its management and mobility support.  
• 3rd party modem, if it is OpenAMIP 1.17 certified.  When integrated with 3rd party modems, the antenna is supplied with an Antenna Control Unit (ACU).