Satellites have revolutionized modern communication, broadcasting, navigation and weather monitoring. From watching international news channels to using GPS while driving, satellites are an essential part of our daily lives. In this article we explore what satellites are, their orbital types, and how to receive their signals at home.
🌍 What is a satellite?
A satellite is an artificial object launched into space to orbit a planet or other celestial body. Satellites are used for a wide range of applications, including:
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Television and radio broadcasts
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Internet and telecommunications
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GPS and global navigation
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Military reconnaissance
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Weather forecasts and climate research
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Earth observation and scientific exploration
🧭 Types of satellite orbits
Satellites orbit the Earth at different heights depending on their mission. The three main types of satellite orbits are:
1. LEO – Low Earth Orbit (160 km – 2,000 km)
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It orbits the Earth in 90-120 minutes
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Used for: Internet (e.g. Starlink), Earth imaging, space stations (ISS)
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Low latency and high definition
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Requires many satellites for global coverage
2. MEO – Medium Earth Orbit (2,000 km – 35,786 km)
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It orbits the Earth in 2-12 hours
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Used for: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo navigation systems
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Balanced latency and coverage
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Fewer satellites are needed than LEO
3. GEO – Geostationary Orbit (35,786 km)
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It remains fixed at a position on the equator
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Orbits the Earth in 24 hours (same as the Earth’s rotation)
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Used for: television broadcasts (e.g. Nilesat, Hotbird), communications, weather satellites
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Provides consistent coverage of a large area
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Higher latency but ideal for transmission
📡 How to receive satellite signals at home
To watch satellite TV or receive satellite data, you need a satellite reception system. Here’s how it works:
🧰 Essential components:
| Component | Function |
|---|---|
| Satellite dish | It captures signals from the satellite and reflects them to the LNB |
| LNB (low noise block) | It converts and amplifies signals from the satellite into usable frequencies |
| Receiver (decoder) | Translates satellite signals into video/audio or data |
| TV or Monitor | View content |
🛰️ Steps to receive a satellite signal:
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Choose the right satellite:
Example: Hotbird (13°E), Nilesat (7°W), Astra (19.2°E) -
Place the plate:
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Use a compass or satellite finder to align the dish with the satellite position.
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Regular azimuth (left/right), elevation (up/down) e inclination (tilt of the LNB).
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Optimize the signal using a signal meter or the receiver’s quality level screen.
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Connect the equipment:
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Search channels:
- Save channels and enjoy!
💡 Tips for better signal quality:
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Use a high-quality dish (at least 60–80 cm for most satellites).
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Make sure there are no obstacles (trees, buildings) between the dish and the sky.
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Securely secure the tray to avoid movement due to wind.
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Weather can affect the signal, especially heavy rain (known as rain fade).
🛰️ Popular broadcast satellites:
| Satellite name | Orbital position | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Nilesat | 7th West | Arab and African channels |
| Hotbird | 13° east | European TV and some Arabic |
| Astra 19.2°E | 19.2° east | Western European channels |
| Galaxy 19 | 97° West | North American international TV |
Global Freqs provides accurate and regularly updated information to simplify the process.
This article explains how to search for channels, enter transponder details and adjust your dish for optimal reception.
With Global Freqs, your favorite shows are always just a click away.