Astrophysics & Particle Physics-APPC 2026

Satellite Communications is the technology discipline that employs artificial satellites to broadcast signals for telecommunication, internet connectivity, broadcasting, navigation, and data transfer. With communication satellites orbiting Earth, signals get transmitted over vast distances, transcending the constraints of ground-based networks.The communication satellites function in different orbits, i.e., geostationary (GEO), medium Earth orbit (MEO), and low Earth orbit (LEO). Every orbit has its own individual benefits for coverage, latency, and signal strength. GEO satellites stay in place with respect to a station on Earth, ensuring stable television broadcasting and telecommunication services, while LEO and MEO satellites enable low-latency communication and satellite internet.Satellite communications are based on uplink and downlink transmission, in which the signals move from an Earth station to the satellite and vice versa to other stations or receivers. Newer satellite networks use radio frequency (RF) bands such as C, Ku, Ka, and L bands, and optical communication for high-speed data transfer.Among the applications of satellite communications are global internet connectivity, mobile telecommunication, satellite television, GPS, transfer of remote sensing data, and disaster management network.

They are essential for bridging far-flung and remote areas, facilitating global communication, and assisting emergency communications during natural disasters.The technology combines antenna systems, signal processing, modulation methods, error correction mechanisms, and network protocols to provide robust and secure communication. Satellite constellations like OneWeb and Starlink are increasing low-latency, high-bandwidth connectivity throughout the world.Satellite communications, through the synergistic integration of space technology and telecommunications engineering, offer critical infrastructure for global communications, information interchange, and technological advancements to cater to both civilian and commercial endeavors and to enhance the functionality of contemporary communication networks.