Satellite Communications

Satellite communication, in telecommunications, the use of artificial satellites

to provide communication links between various points on Earth. Satellite
communications play a vital role in the global telecommunications system.
Approximately 2,000 artificial satellites orbiting Earth relay analog and digital
signals carrying voice, video, and data to and from one or many locations
worldwide.
Satellite communication has two main components: the ground segment, which
consists of fixed or mobile transmission, reception, and ancillary equipment, and the
space segment, which primarily is the satellite itself. A typical satellite link involves
the transmission or uplinking of a signal from an Earth station to a satellite. The
satellite then receives and amplifies the signal and retransmits it back to Earth,
where it is received and reamplified by Earth stations and terminals. Satellite
receivers on the ground include direct-to-home (DTH) satellite equipment, mobile
reception equipment in aircraft, satellite telephones, and handheld devices.

Terrestrial Communications
Terrestrial wireless communication has delay that is not noticeable, whereas
in satellite communication using geostationary satellites, at an altitude of 36000
km, the users experience a quarter of a second delay.

frequencies used in GMDSS INMARSAT

A VHF radio installation capable of transmitting DSC on channel 70, and
radiotelephony on channels 16, 13 and 6.
One SART if under 500 GRT, 2 SARTs if over 500 GRT.
Two portable VHF transceivers for use in survival craft if under 500 GRT, three if
over 500 GRT.
A NAVTEX receiver, if the ship is engaged on voyages in any area where a NAVTEX
service is provided.
An Inmarsat EGC receiver, if the ship is engaged on voyages in any area of Inmarsat
coverage where MSI services are not provided by NAVTEX or HF NBDP.
A 406 MHz EPIRB

Radio equipment - Sea areas A1 and A2

Every ship engaged on voyages beyond sea area A1, but remaining within sea area
A2, shall be provided with the minimum equipment specified previously, plus:

An MF radio installation capable of transmitting and receiving on the frequencies

2187.5 kHz using DSC and 2182 kHz using radiotelephony; and
a DSC watch keeping receiver operating on 2187.5 kHz.
The ship shall, in addition, be capable of transmitting and receiving general radio
communications using radiotelephony or direct-printing telegraphy by either:
A HF radio installation operating on working frequencies in the (marine) bands
between 1,605 kHz and 27,500 kHz. (This requirement is normally fulfilled by the MF
equipment referred to earlier - all GMDSS MF transceivers also cover HF) OR An
Inmarsat ship station.