Polarization – Definition and Pronunciation
What is Polarization?
Polarization is a transmission approach where radio waves are restricted to certain directions of electrical and magnetic field variations, where these directions are perpendicular to the direction of wave travel. By convention, the polarization of a radio wave is defined by the direction of the electric field vector. Four senses of polarization are used in satellite transmissions: horizontal linear polarization, vertical linear polarization, right-hand circular polarization and left-hand circular polarization.
Examples of Polarization
Satellites usually support a number of beams, making use of frequency reuse; the use of a half-a-dozen to a dozen beams if fairly typical. These beams are implemented using different antennas and/or distinct feeds on a single antenna. Each spot beam reuses available frequencies (and/or polarizations), so that a single satellite can provide increased bandwidth.
From “Exploring the Future of Satellites”.
Space division multiplexing (also known as frequency reuse) is the ability to use the same frequencies (and/or polarizations) repeatedly across a system, but where there is geographical and/or physical separation.
From “High Throughput Satellites (HTS) and KA/KU Spot Beam Technologies”.
The ACU uses this information to calculate the initial pointing angles and polarization for the antenna to the desired satellite (ViaSat-1, WildBlue-1, or Anik-F2).
From “Aeronautical Mobility Services”.
Pronunciation of Polarization
