Recent Advances of Satellites

Jennifer R / Physics 11-Sect. #338 / 14 April 1997
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[ How Satellites are Used Today ] [ New Satellite Communications ] [ Latest in Satellite Gear ]
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[ Future Advances for Satellite Technology ]
In the years to come, there are many projected plans in the area of satellites. This will be a benefit to the United States and the rest of the world. Some of these advances are in satellite photography, communications, and weather technology. Some of the future advances are in the distant future, while others are being developed right now.


How Satellites are Used Today

Today Satellites are used for direct broadcast television, wireless cable, cellular telephone, photography, and video tele-conferencing. The special sports programs, movies, and news broadcasts are all televised because of satellites. Artificial satellites have been launched to photograph the moon, Mars, Venus, Saturn, and Jupiter. Other satellites send information, back to the Earth about the weather of the Earth.

 

Planet 1: New Satellite Communications

A new satellite system is known as Planet 1. It integrates cellular and satellite technology to provide mobile voice, data, and facsimile communications. "The package weighs less than six pounds and the price is $2,995, plus a $3 a minute in use charges." (Miller, 134) By the end of the year, it is expected that Planet 1 service will be offered to countries all around the world.

The Notebook Computer: The Latest in Satellite Gear

Now the business traveler can go anywhere on business without having to worry whether they can make their business call. New technology has put the out of touch traveler in touch with the world. Recent advances in satellite technology have provided the use of compact cellular phones. "Travelers can take along the latest in satellite gear, which is no bigger than a notebook computer."(Miller,134)

Direct Broadcast: Satellite TV

Direct Broadcast Satellite television is a very costly business. Wireless cable technology brings pay TV to rural areas. This technology works by beaming signals from a central tower to dishes on the roofs of houses or buildings. The new technology is cheaper than laying wires under the ground.

Satellite Advances in Television

Special satellites send pictures and messages from one continent to another . Dish antennas are used to send and receive information. A television show that is broadcasted live from one country can also be seen in another country which is half way around the world. Communication services are now using small antennas to send and receive the information.

Future Global Satellite Network

AT&T Corp. has filed an application to build and launch a global satellite network. This would allow computer users to bypass telephone networks and connect directly to the internet by satellite. "AT&T has used satellites in its international long distance network." (Ley,32) This new technology would involve a network of satellites positioned around the Earth.

Future Advances for Satellite Technology

Additional satellites are scheduled for launch that will enable new communication systems to be used around the world. Advances in the new Satellite Technology have made people no more than a phone call away. Satellites can send messages from one continent to another and also from one planet to another. Satellite technology brings us the weather, cellular phones, wireless cable, and direct broadcast television. Satellite communication companies are expecting these services to be offered all over the world in the very near future.

References Section

Grasso, Patricia. Earth and Space Science. Cleveland: Modern Curriculum Press Inc.,1987.

Landler, Mark. "Thinking Wireless,John Kluge Builds His Next Empire Out of Thin Air." New York Times. 5 Jan. 1997, Sec.3:1+.

Ley, Whilly. "Space Exploration." The Book of Popular Science. New York: Grolier Incorporated,1988.

Miller, Thomas J. "Communications: Technology for Your Job." Fortune Technology Winter 1997 : 128-134.