• Cable Television
  
• Broadcast & Occasional
  
• Internet, Broadband & SCPC
  
• Specialized Networks
  
• Spacecraft Management
• STARS Online
  
  

• Launches
  
• Global Fleet
  
• Facilities Map

• Mission
  
• History
  
• Our People
  
• Quality Initiatives
  
• Business Partners
  
• Ask the Rocket Scientist
  
  

Ask the Rocket Scientist consists of a series of interviews conducted with the staff of GE Americom, which answers some questions you may have about our satellites. These interviews are divided into three categories: Hardware, Launches and Management. Click on the titles to view the answers.

In an interview with Mr. Braun, he describes some general aspects of geosynchronous communications satellites, launch vehicles and the operation of satellite systems for telecommunications purposes. Click on your connection speed to view a streaming presentation.

	Satellite Technology Walter H. Braun		28.8K +	56.6K +	80K +

Download RealPlayer

1. What are the major components of a satellite?
2. What is a payload?
3. How robust is the system carrying my signal?

1. What key steps must happen to launch a satellite?
2. How does a satellite get to the launch site and what happens after it arrives?
3. Does the spacecraft itself get tested?
4. What comes next?

b. How Does a Satellite Reach its Orbital Slot?

1. We know a typical communications satellite "flies" in a geosynchronous circular orbit 22,300 miles above the equator. Why?
2. How does a satellite get to the launch site and what happens after it arrives?
3. Following launch, what has to happen to get it there?
4. Is the satellite operational at that point?

c. Sample Launch: GE-4

1. Just what is it you monitor and control?
2. How is this done?
3. Where does all this occur, is there one "super" earth station?

b. What Happens When a Satellite Gets Old?

1. What is an inclined orbit and why does a satellite go into one?
2. What type of communication capabilities can you expect from a satellite in an inclined orbit?
3. How long can a satellite in an inclined orbit last?

c. When and How is a Satellite Retired?

1. What causes a satellite to be retired? Electronic failures? Fuel depletion?
2. How do you measure the remaining fuel, after all geosynchronous orbit is 22,300 miles in space?
3. What does a typical fuel budget include?
4. What do you mean by "retirement"?