Question

“Satellites are a mode of communication in themselves as well as they regulate the use of other means of communication.” Substantiate the statement.

Hint:

Satellites provide direct communication and play an important role in regulating other systems like GPS, television broadcasting, and internet services.

Answer 1

Satellites play a vital role in communication by enabling direct communication and regulating other communication technologies, making them indispensable in modern life.
Satellites as a Mode of Communication:
Satellites are an essential mode of communication, facilitating data transfer, television broadcasting, internet services, and mobile communication. Communication satellites, such as geostationary satellites, orbit Earth and relay signals across vast distances. This enables long-range communication, particularly in remote areas where terrestrial infrastructure is not feasible.
- Examples of satellite communication include TV broadcasting, satellite phones, and internet services, where satellites relay signals between ground stations and provide a global coverage area. For instance, satellites like INSAT (Indian National Satellite System) provide broadcasting services across India.
Regulation of Other Communication Systems:
Satellites not only provide direct communication but also regulate other means of communication by acting as relays and guiding data between networks. In global positioning systems (GPS), for example, satellites regulate and support navigation, which in turn impacts road and air traffic systems worldwide.
- Satellites also help in controlling communication networks by providing backup services when terrestrial systems like cables or fiber optics are damaged due to natural disasters, or in areas where ground communication infrastructure is weak.
In conclusion, satellites serve as a primary communication medium while also regulating and enhancing the performance of other communication technologies.