There are currently over 2,600 satellites circling our planet. But, what are they doing up there? And how do they benefit our lives on Earth?
Read on to learn about the different uses for satellites.
1. Navigate the World With Satellites
Satellites are what allow us to use GPS, or global positioning systems. This allows us to travel the world without getting lost or confused.
A GNSS simulator can even help us create maps that show how we could navigate various types of terrain. So, the next time you get lost on the way to dinner and turn on your GPS, you can thank satellites for helping you out.
2. Satellites Can Monitor Wildlife
Scientists have been using wildlife to monitor the number of different types of animals. This can be particularly helpful when trying to figure out how to protect different types of endangered species around the world.
In remote areas, like the Canadian Arctic, satellites are integral for monitoring the wildlife and ensuring that the numbers haven’t suddenly dropped.
3. Protect the Earth
Animals aren’t the only thing that satellites can help us protect. Governments use satellites to watch the effects of climate change on our planet. This can help them come up with ways to reduce the damage and stop the continued destruction of our planet. These satellites monitor holes in our ozone layer, concentrations of carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide, and moisture in our soil.
Satellites can also watch out for changes in our landscape. Satellites make it easier to look at the evolution of deforestation, for example, so that governments and scientists can know if logging companies have gone too far.
4. Communicate Through Satellites
Satellites are how some types of phones communicate with one another. So, whenever you make a phone call or send a text message using a satellite phone, you can thank satellites for helping you out.
Some internet connections also use satellite connections. If you have satellite internet at home, you’re using satellites every time you surf the web.
5. Pay For Things Via Satellite
Did you know that your financial institution probably utilizes a satellite? Satellites complement the financial communications infrastructure we have on Earth.
Satellites are particularly helpful in regions that have bad reception or limited terrestrial infrastructure. These can include remote areas, like farm country.
Satellites are also a major part of our mobile banking systems. Mobile banking transactions need exact timing in order to ensure that the transactions are legitimate. So, satellites ensure that mobile banking transactions go through in a safe and timely manner.
Now You Know About the Different Uses for Satellites
Clearly, the uses for satellites have a major impact on lots of different aspects of our society. And, these are just a limited number of the many amazing uses. Do more research, and you’ll learn even more about how satellites change our world.
Are you looking to read more about technology and related topics? Scroll through a few of our other amazing posts for more.
