This paper addresses the issues concerning the future of satellite communication, which will be influenced by the advancement of fiber optical cables, the proliferation ofC- andKu-band satellites, the standardization of ISDN, the requirements for new and low cost services, the economic disparity among countries, the extent of institutional policy changes, as well as technological breakthroughs. The factors will dictate and shape, both internationally and domestically, the directions of future satellite communications. In addition, the following subjects are discussed:\bulletservice and traffic projections\bulletaccess strategies\bulletmodulation alternatives\bulletsatellite switching and on-board processing\bulletphase array antennas\bulletlow-altitude orbit options\bulletsatellite lifetime extension.