Using the Q-band frequency for a wide-range of communications will rely on continuous and reliable availability. However the Q-band is a higher frequency than those currently in commercial use and that makes it more susceptible to breaking up due to weather conditions or similar. That’s why it is likely that multiple locations are needed to ensure a continuous ‘gateway’ for transmission.
The experiment will help uncover whether the Q-band can be reliable enough for commercialization by telecommunications companies in the near future. It will also explore ways to mitigate any problems caused by adverse weather. The high frequencies could facilitate high bandwidth satellite links that would be especially useful for communication on planes, trains, and other fast-moving vehicles—as long as engineers can develop ways to ensure reliable connections.
