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Satellite Technology

- including satellite television, satellite radio, global positioning system (GPS), and basic principles

Satellites are now an essential part of today's technology. The world has now come to rely on them in many ways. From satellite television (satellite tv) or direct broadcasting (DBS) of radio and television to the Global Positioning System (GPS) and the new Galileo system, as well as communications satellites such as Inmarsat and surveying and weather monitoring satellites. Today we rely on satellites for many functions and they have become a part of everyday life that we take for granted. However it was only back in 1957 that the first satellite, Sputnik was launched. This ground breaking achievement set the pace for an enormous rate of development that saw communications and many other areas of life revolutionised.

Satellite basics

Whatever the form of satellite the basic concepts are still the same. The orbit, launch carriers and also the basic requirements for satellite must be met, whether the satellite is for communications, radio or television satellite broadcasting, weather monitoring, or for navigation in the case of GPS.

Global positioning system (GPS)

The global positioning system (GPS) using the US DoD Navstar satellites is now well established and it is possible to buy GPS receivers very easily and cheaply considering the technology used. Additionally they are particularly accurate, enabling many cars to use SatNav systems inconjunction with stored map to provide a very comprenesive navigation system. If this was not enough, Europe is to launch its own satellite navigation system under the name Galileo.

Satellite communications systems

Although terrestrial landline and mobile phone systems are widespread, satellite based systems are also available. Although more costly, these satellite phone systems provide essential services in several arenas.