Satellite & Data Communication for

Air Cadets

“Our dependence [on space] has never been

higher. In fact, it’s integrated into how we fight
wars today so deeply that it is hard to imagine
taking space out of the equation.”
Gen William L Shelton, CinC USAF Space Command
Speech to U.S. National Space Symposium, 12 Apr 11
 Unit Aim

The aim of this unit is to give learners

knowledge of satellite and data
communication systems and networks
for Air Cadets.

CLASSIFICATION
UNCLASSIFIED
 Unit Introduction
This unit gives learners knowledge of satellite and data
communication systems and networks that are required at
ATC Senior and Master Air Cadet level.

This unit introduces the principles and equipment used in

satellite and data communication. It explores the types, orbits
and roles and construction of satellites, and describes the
basic function of a Global Positioning System.

The unit also develops an understanding of types of data

communications networks and mobile communication.
 Learning Outcomes
On completion of this unit a learner should:

•Know main types and roles of satellites and

principles of earth orbit.

•Know components and principles of a Global

Positioning System

•Know principles of data communication

•Know types and roles of mobile communication

UK Space Primer
 Scope
• The Space Environment
• Orbits
• Launch
• The Global Positioning System
• The Principles of Data Communication
• The Types & Roles of Mobile Communication
• Summary
• Questions
The Space Environment

Reference:
Chapter 1; UK Space Primer

7
 Space Characteristics
• No geographical boundaries

• Freedom of movement

• Unique characteristics
The Boundary Between Air & Space

• 150km
• Spacecraft in orbit 150

• 100km 100
• Limit of aerodynamic
control
• 80km 80

• US Definition

9
 The Space Environment
• An environment characterised by:
• High energy particles
• Fluctuating magnetic fields
• Variable temperatures
• No aerodynamic forces
– The laws of orbital motion

10
 Key Environmental Regions
Magnetosphere

Exosphere

Thermosphere

Ionosphere Mesosphere
Sp
ace
Stratosphere We
at he r
r
at he
e
i alW Troposphere
r estr
r
Te

11
Orbits - Definition of Terms
 Apogee and Perigee
Apogee
Furthest point from Earth

Perigee
Closest point to Earth
 Ground Trace
A ground trace is the projection of a satellite’s 3D orbit
onto the earth’s surface as a 2D representation
 ~800-40,000 km

Common Orbits
11 HRS 58 MIN
~26,000-8,000 KPH

Orbit size determines time for one orbit

HEO
Orbit size and shape also determines the speed

Earth NOT to scale !

MEO GEO
LEO

850 km ~20,830 km ~36,160 km

101 MINUTES 11 HRS 58 MIN 23 HRS 56 MIN
24,600 KPH ~14,330 KPH ~11,160 KPH