The high data rate satellite networks are expected to play an important roll in the global communications networking in the 21st century. CRL has started the three-year-long research both on system concept and key technologies of the experimental high data rate ( Gigabit ) communications satellite. New technological challenges are required for providing the connectivity for the future growing multi-media applications in the optical fiber network era; a wide area coverage with the Ka band narrow spot beams for the global high data-rate access, high-speed and flexible satellite switches, and an interoperability with the terrestrial optical fiber networks.