Satellite Systems
Overview
A driver in a strange city is guided turn by turn to a hotel; a television channel reaches millions of homes at once; an emergency team is sent to the nearest casualty by a map that layers traffic, hospitals and population. All three lean on spacecraft thousands of kilometres above our heads. Satellite systems quietly carry position, data and broadcasts across the whole planet.
This lesson covers the three satellite applications the syllabus names: Global Positioning Systems (GPS) and satellite navigation, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and media communication such as satellite television and phones. You will learn how at least three satellites fix a position, how GIS layers data on a map, how a signal is bounced off a satellite to the far side of the world, and the genuine advantages and disadvantages of each.
Objectives
- Satellite systems.
- Characteristics, uses, advantages and disadvantages of satellite systems including Global Positioning Systems (GPS), satellite navigation, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), media communication systems (satellite television, satellite phone).
Audio Lesson
Listen to this lesson in the app
Mind map
This topic is mapped out so you can see how the ideas connect.
Open the mind map in the app
Flashcards
Quick recall practice on the facts this topic is tested on.
Practise these cards in the app
Lesson Note
Complete Note Available on the Green Bridge App
Get the Green Bridge CBT app on your phone or computer for the complete IGCSE library: past papers, mark schemes, mind maps, flashcards and audio lessons.
Lesson Evaluation
Congratulations on completing the lesson on Satellite Systems. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.
You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.
Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.
- What is the minimum number of satellites a GPS receiver needs to calculate its position? A. One B. Two C. Three D. Six Answer: C
- Which device actually calculates the position from the satellite signals? A. The satellite B. The receiver in the vehicle C. The atomic clock D. The transponder Answer: B
- A system that maps, layers and analyses data according to its location is a: A. GPS B. GIS C. EFTPOS D. OMR Answer: B
- The part of a satellite that receives and re-sends signals is the: A. Solar panel B. Propulsion unit C. Transponder D. Atomic clock Answer: C
- Which is a disadvantage of satellite media communication? A. Good global coverage B. Very high bandwidth C. A noticeable time delay in the signal D. Suited to broadcasting Answer: C
Work through these questions in the app
Work through these questions in the app
Recommended Books
Practice Mock Questions
Want to practice mock questions on Satellite Systems? Download the Green Bridge CBT app to access mock questions and full practice assessments for this topic.
Download The App On Google Playstore
Everything you need to excel in your exams
