Certificate

Satellite Communications & Earth Station Technician

A 12-credit certificate in four courses: orbital mechanics and earth station fundamentals, frequency converters and high-power amplifiers, tracking antennas and phased arrays, and digital modulation and link budgets. Coursework is vendor-neutral. It prepares you for industry practice and does not by itself grant any license or agency certification.

12 credits

3 terms

Free to study · $99 for the credential

100% online

Outcomes

What you will be able to do

01Calculate look angles and link budgets
02Service converters and amplifiers
03Maintain tracking antenna systems
04Troubleshoot satellite modem links

Careers

Where graduates work

Earth station technician
Satellite communications technician
Teleport RF technician

Curriculum

Term 1

3 credits

SAT 1013 cr

Orbital Mechanics and Earth Station Fundamentals

This course provides a foundational understanding of satellite orbital mechanics and the practical aspects of earth station operation. Students will learn about various orbit types, antenna pointing, earth station infrastructure, and crucial safety protocols.

Term 2

6 credits

SAT 1053 cr

Frequency Converters and High-Power Amplifiers

This course provides comprehensive training on the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of frequency converters and high-power amplifiers used in satellite communication systems. Students will gain practical skills in working with up/downconverters, low-noise block downconverters (LNBs), and both traveling-wave tube and solid-state power amplifiers across common high-frequency bands.

SAT 1103 cr

Antenna Tracking Systems and Phased Arrays

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to antenna tracking systems and phased array technologies, focusing on their operational principles, components, and maintenance. Students will develop practical skills necessary for the installation, troubleshooting, and repair of these critical communication and sensing systems.

Term 3

3 credits

SAT 1153 cr

Digital Modulation, DVB-S2X and Link Budgets

This course provides a comprehensive understanding of digital modulation techniques, focusing on their application in modern satellite communication systems, including the DVB-S2X standard. Students will develop essential skills in link budget analysis and practical interference troubleshooting for robust satellite links.

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