Boeing achieves satellite diversity by having a large discrimination angle for a MEO constellation of communications satellites to limit interference in the Ku-band with GSO communications systems. Each satellite entering an exclusion zone over a GSO ground station terminates all transmissions to provide EPFD within acceptable limits. The Boeing MEO constellation preferably comprises 20 satellites, 5 in each orbit. The four orbits are inclined at about 57.degree. with respect to the equator. Services include an Integrated Digital Service (IDS) and Backhaul Data Service (BDS) to accommodate the needs of different users.