Describe the application of satellites in telecommunication, and the concept of geostationary orbit.

Question

Accepted Answer

Satellite communication is a wireless technology in which signals are sent and received via satellites positioned in space to support long-distance communication, transporting data, voice, and video signals between locations on Earth. A satellite system has a Space Segment (the satellite that sends/receives signals) and a Ground Segment (fixed or mobile stations that transmit signals to the satellite). Most communication satellites are placed in geostationary orbit, about 36,000 km above the Earth's equator, where the satellite remains fixed over one spot on Earth while covering a wide area - this makes it ideal for continuous services like television broadcast, internet access, weather forecasting, GPS, and international telephone/fax communication.