Polarstern runs two main satellite communication systems:
VSAT C-band and Iridium Certus.
VSAT C-band
- Covers Polarstern's common campaign area (except polar regions), see figure below
- Geo stationary orbit, therefore only available up to ~75° latitude north/south
- Leased line contract, no data volume limitation
- Satellite: SES-4, C-band global beam, at 22°W (more eastern/western C-band satellites could be requested if available)
Iridium Certus
- Iridium Certus antenna with global coverage
- but limited data volume of 3x 10GB per month
- polar orbit (globally available)
- operated by ship's crew when C-band is not available
Coverage of VSAT C-band (SES-4)
Pink color represents the reception level (34-37 dB) per region.
The black lined zones labelled 10°, 5°, 0° represent the elevation angle. Mobile maritime devices do typically miss link between 2-5°.
Detailed coverage on northern (left) and southern (right) hemispheres:
