This is the basis of global communications in the present day.
In simple terms, it is an object in orbit. Search on "explanation of orbit" in this blog to find out what "orbit" actually is.
Communications Satellites have special orbits. It all happens because someone realised that if the object is high enough, it can circle the earth at the same speed that the earth itself rotates. Sadly, it was never patented.
The practical upshot of which is that when viewed from the ground, the object will be above the same spot at all times.
For this reason, the are called "stationary orbits". and are now the basis for communication, TV and SatNav.
All because we know exactly where these things are all the time.
And was it who had this idea?
None other than 2001 author, Arthur C.Clarke.
(100 bonus points for each of the three meanings to the title of this post)
Friday, April 17, 2009
Communications Breakdown
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2 comments:
Guessing "Cool Hand Luke" would be one. "2001" and Hal would be another communications breakdown. Okay, that's two. Doubt this is three, but the communications breakdown with North Korea on their nuclear aspirations is definitely another one, even if not your third one. (Then too, there is the satellite they launched, which communicates to them and no one else. Could that be it? ha ha ha) Third one is sure to have something to do with "Star Wars" or "Star Trek".
;-) As Meatloaf would say, 2 out of 3 ain't bad.
Totally wrong on all three counts!
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