Satellite phone

A satellite phone or satphone is a mobile phone that communicates directly with orbiting satellites. Depending on the architecture of a particular system, coverage may include the entire planet, or only specific regions.

Related Topics:
Mobile phone - Satellite

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The mobile equipment, also known as a terminal or earth station, varies widely. A satellite phone handset has a size and weight comparable to that of a late 1980s or early 1990s cell phone, but with a large retractable antenna. These are popular on expeditions into remote areas where terrestrial cellular service is unavailable.

Related Topics:
Earth station - Cell phone - Cellular

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A fixed installation, such as used shipboard, may include large, rugged, rack-mounted electronics, and a steerable microwave antenna on the mast that automatically tracks the overhead satellites.

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