Communications satellites are used extensively in wideband communications systems today, due to their economic benefits and ability to meet requirements in unique ways. The satellite industry is satisfying the growing demand for wideband access by developing both new concepts that use existing systems and new satellite systems that are optimized for this service. In many cases, satellite-based systems provide cost-effective solutions and offer capabilities that are difficult to obtain by other technologies. Therefore, satellites will continue to play an important and expanding role in the world of wideband access.