Ku band is used for satellite comms in the range of 12 to 18 GHz and not considered optical.

I have around 10 years experience as a technician with systems using KU band and the only problem noticed is that heavy rain or extreme thick cloud coverage with lots of humidity inside will interfer and cut of transmission. Hope this helps.

Regards Frans

Thank you Frans, very helpfull.

Is it possible to use optical systems for digital broadcasting in Ku Band? (Optical transmitter, receiver)

Hi Ippokratis

Perhaps http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ku_band can answer many of your questions.

I agree in that I dont see how Ku could be considered an optical. What exactly are you proposing? I wonder if you are suggesting using an optical downlink (i.e. laser) for data taken by a space craft in the Ku band. Is this what you are meaning?

I know that NASA has studied optical downlinks for deep space craft in the search for higher bandwidths at great distances. Clouds were the main problem, and I think the solution was the downlink station was in earth orbit, to be downloaded conventionally.

Richard

I think that the response of Mr. Miller is quite appropriate from technical point of view. I would only like to emphasize that according to ITU the Ku band is split into multiple segments which vary by geographical region and only very narrow parts of the band are allocated for broadcasting.

Thank you all for your answers and time taken. Richard, Yes, all I am asking is if optical downlinks can be used in Ku Bands. For example Adaptive optical transmitter and receiver

for space communication through thin clouds. Optical space communication from satellite to ground or air to air. Or better Optical instead of microwave propagation.