Satellite Orbits and Communication — Lesson 1

This lesson covers the fundamental aspects of Satellite Communication Systems. It delves into the basic features of satellite communication, including its ability to cover large geographical areas and its function as a microwave repeater. The lesson also discusses various technical terms used in the service, such as transponder, BSS, FSS, MSS, hi-rel, and LNA. It further explores the frequency bands allocated for these services by the International Telecommunication Union. The lesson then moves on to the three segments of a satellite communication system: the space segment, ground segment, and propagation medium. It also explains the concept of orbital mechanics and how it affects the communication system. The lesson concludes with a discussion on the orbital height of a circular orbit satellite with a period of one sidereal day.

Video Highlights

00:18 - Introduction
05:16 - Typical orbit raising mission
06:16 - First and second laws of Planetary motion
08:53 - Third law of Planetary motion
10:50 - Circle is a special form of ellipse
18:54 - What is a day
21:35 - Orbital height of a circular orbit satellite with a period of one sidereal day
24:04 - Geo Synchronous Orbit (GSO) and Geo Stationary Orbit (GEO)

Key Takeaways

- Satellite communication covers large geographical areas and functions as a microwave repeater.
- The International Telecommunication Union allocates frequency bands for the satellite services.
- A satellite communication system consists of three segments: the space segment, ground segment, and propagation medium.
- Orbital mechanics significantly affect the communication system.
- The orbital height of a circular orbit satellite with a period of one sidereal day is crucial for uninterrupted communication.