Satellite communication means sending, receiving and processing of information through satellites. For satellite communication, the information is sent to the satellites in the form of electromagnetic waves by transmitters located at the earth. The electromagnetic waves travel through the space with velocity of light (3 ×108 m/s) and reach the satellite. The satellites receive these signals through special instruments called transponders. After receiving the signals, the satellite retransmits these signals in different directions either at same frequency or at different frequency. These signals are then received by the receivers located in various regions of the earth. Since the satellite communication takes place through space, so it is also called space communication.
Test Your Understanding and Answer These Questions:
- What is the meaning of satellite communication?
- What is space communication?
- Give definition of transmitters, transponders and receivers.