Satellites Deliver Broadband
Blue Skies or Black Space?
Despite the spread of DSL, cable modems and other broadband technologies, satellite supporters feel that their technology will always be able to compete effectively with landline connections, just as satellite TV broadcasters now contend against cable companies. "The answer will be to offer a high quality service at a competitive price," says Blair Gilbert, product development manager for Bala Cynwyd, Pa.-based Pegasus Communications. "As long as people live or work in remote locations, or desire an alternative to terrestrial connections, there will be a market for satellite services."
Still other observers aren’t so sure, claiming that two-way satellite service’s future hinges on how long it takes phone and cable companies to bring broadband pipes to businesses and homes. "There will always be some customers without access to terrestrial broadband connections, but that number will steadily dwindle over the next several years," says Goodman. n
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