What Is a Satellite Constellation?

Did you know that there are over 6,500 satellites orbiting the earth?

Only about half of them are still active. However, our way of life would be quite different without them. Sometimes we take technology for granted but learning about it can increase our appreciation for all kinds of things.

Are you wondering how they work in sync? Keep reading to learn all about what a satellite constellation is and how we use them.

What Is It?

You probably only ever heard the word constellation as a way to describe a group of stars. This concept is similar when we take about satellites. Put in the simplest terms possible, a satellite constellation refers to a group of satellites that are programmed to work together to perform specific tasks.

While there are thousands of satellites in the earth’s orbit, most of them don’t work together. One way we use satellites all the time is through a global positioning system (GPS) within our phones or cars. That way, we can know where we are at all times, no matter our location.

How Does It Work?

You may be surprised to learn that it only takes 24 satellites of equal distribution to cover the expanse of the earth’s surface and provide reliable GPS service. The distribution is determined by calculating 6 orbital planes. That way, the satellites can always transmit data to each other despite the fact that they are traveling around the earth at incredible speeds.

This is one among other situations in which Cast Navigation technology can come in handy.

Other Uses

Aside from GPS, talking on a cellphone is also a task that’s reliant on similar satellites. Few people have a landline these days, so it’s necessary to transmit a person’s speech to a satellite that then transmits the data to the other person’s phone via one or more other satellites.

There are many fancy calculations involved to ensure that your conversation feels like an uninterrupted exchange. In many instances, someone who is living in the U.S. and talking with their friend in Germany can feel like they have the person right in their living room. Depending on your service provider, though, there could be many delays, interferences, and other issues.

Remember that not every company needs satellite swarms to accomplish its goals. Photography, for instance, can get away with using only a single satellite in some cases.

Are You Ready to Use a Satellite Constellation?

Now that you’ve learned about what is a satellite constellation is, you can appreciate the technology every time you use your GPS. We would literally be lost without them. Your friends and family members will be impressed with your knowledge when you tell them all about it.

Do you consider yourself a tech buff? If so, you’re sure to drool over the rest of our tech content. Since you’ve made it this far, you should feel free to browse what we’ve published up until this point and stay tuned for more.