The study discussed in this book approaches the task of understanding the interrelated effects of innovations on society by concentrating on one technological innovation--satellite communications--as it relates to three basic processes: the relation of innovations in communications technology to innovations in policy and the policy-making process, the distinction between domestic and foreign policy decision-making, and the processes of rational decision-making characteristic of and appropriate for issues which are complex because of technological innovations. These three themes are analyzed through an historical treatment and through contemporary interpretation of the issues, participants, and major events which have made the politics of space communications an important part of existing policies within and between nations. Chapters consider traditional communications and the coming of the space age, early developments in space communications, the passage of the Communications Satellite Act of 1962, the interim arrangements for INTELSAT, space communications and national security, INTELSAT and INTERSPUTNIK, transitional arrangements for INTELSAT, and conclusions. (Author/SH)