About a Very Small Aperture Terminal

Two-way satellite ground stations with a dish antenna measuring less than three meters is considered a small aperture terminal. These two-way satellites receive and send data to satellites in orbit. The satellites redirect the data to hubs around the planet. Very small aperture terminals are mostly utilized for wireless transmissions. Satellite technology advancements continue to manufacture smaller aperture satellite terminals.

History of Satellites and Very Small Aperture Terminals 

NASA developed live satellite communication in the 1960’s, which transmitted the 1964 Olympic games in Japan to viewers in the United States. The “Early Bird,” a commercial satellite was launched into space in 1965. The largest very small aperture terminal network consisted of more than 12,000 sites and was utilized by the United States Postal Service. Smaller and smaller satellites capable of carrying thousands of sites have since been introduced.

Small Maritime Aperture Terminals 

Small aperture terminals also include marine very small aperture terminal antennas that measure smaller than three meters. Ships move at sea, which requires a stabilized antenna with reference to the horizon and true north. The most advanced aperture terminals are able to transmit and receive signals, while remaining constantly pointed toward the satellite. 

Demand for Very Small Aperture Terminals 

According to reports released in 2009, the market for small aperture terminals has increased to $590 million. The demand for aperture terminals is steadily growing. The New York Stock Exchange, with over 3,000 terminals, is the largest wide area network of very small aperture terminals. Another large very small aperture terminal exchange is India. The New York Stock Exchange via 15 computer systems utilizes real-time online applications for very small aperture terminals.