NBC Ku-BAND SATELLITE - A PROGRESS REPORT.

The history and the planning effort leading to NBC's satellite distribution system for network television are described. The Ku-band is being used. The entire system of 180 ground stations should be operational next January. The system will offer a more efficient and economical way to distribute the television signal. The Satellite Network Management System (SNMS) that NBC developed jointly with Comsat General provides central control of traffic through control points known as 'Skypath Control' in Burbank and in New York. The system will mean better pictures and better traffic control.