A Satellite is an object that orbits another body in space. There are two types: natural and man-made. Natural satellites, such as Earth and the Moon, orbit larger celestial bodies. Man-made satellites, like the Hubble Space Telescope and the International Space Station, are machines launched into space to orbit celestial bodies.
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Types of Satellites
- Astronomical satellites are used to observe distant planets, stars, galaxies, and other celestial objects. These space telescopes capture images of objects in space from their position in orbit.
- Biosatellites are designed to study the effects of space on living organisms by placing animals or plants in space for research purposes.
- Communication satellites enable various telecommunication services such as telecasting, phone calls, internet connectivity, radio broadcasts, and remote connectivity.
- We deploy Earth observation satellites to monitor the environment, track climatic changes, and map the Earth for non-military purposes.
- Navigation satellites aid in determining the precise location of objects on Earth, leading to the development of new applications, technologies, and business opportunities.
- During times of war, spacecraft deploy killer spacecraft to attack enemy spacecraft and space objects.
- Space stations serve as habitats for humans to live and conduct research on celestial bodies such as planets, stars, and galaxies.
- During wartime, reconnaissance spacecraft serve the purpose of spying, surveying, and scouting enemy territory.
- Crewed spacecraft transport astronauts to and from space, providing essential facilities for accessing space stations.
- Recovery satellites primarily recover bio, reconnaissance, and other spacecraft back to Earth.
- Solar power spacecraft harness energy from the Sun and transmit it to Earth for consumption.
- Scientists and engineers have developed miniaturized satellites, making them smaller and lighter, thus reducing costs for launching. These satellites serve the purpose of gathering scientific data and relaying radio signals more affordably.
- Weather spacecraft measure and report Earth’s weather conditions, essential for weather forecasting.
Read also: Formation of Planets
