M. D. Glotov1, V. I. Bujakas2
1, 2 Р.N. Lebedev Physical Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences (Moscow, Russia)

1 maxglotov1998@yandex.ru, 2 bujakas@yandex.ru

This paper presents the analysis and simulation of an adaptive Ka-band space communication system aimed at providing reliable high-rate data transmission for interplanetary missions. The study examines the influence of modulation type, coding rate, and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) on the achievable data rate and bit-error probability (BER). A mathematical model has been developed to evaluate system performance for various modulation formats, including PSK and QAM schemes, under realistic channel conditions. Simulation results show that adaptive selection of modulation and coding enables efficient compensation for signal degradation caused by interplanetary distance variation, atmospheric attenuation, and antenna pointing errors. Within a 1 GHz bandwidth, the system can achieve data rates up to 5.25 Gbit/s while maintaining BER better than 10–6 for SNR values above 2.2 dB. The findings confirm that adaptive modulation and coding significantly enhance the efficiency and reliability of Ka-band interplanetary and orbital relay communication links.

Glotov M.D., Bujakas V.I. Adaptive Ka-band space communication system. Antennas. 2026. № 1. P. 82–90. DOI: https://doi.org/ 10.18127/j03209601-202601-07 (in Russian)

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