Question T8B05
From subelement T8 - T8B
What is a satellite beacon?
Why is this correct?
A satellite beacon is a transmission from a satellite that contains status information (D). It's like a space-based lighthouse that regularly broadcasts telemetry data including battery voltage, temperature, operating mode, and spacecraft health. Options A, B, and C describe physical components or visual aids, but a beacon is specifically a radio transmission that provides real-time satellite status to ground stations.
Memory tip
Think 'beacon = broadcast' - both start with 'b' and involve sending information outward. Satellite beacons function like maritime lighthouses, but instead of light signals warning ships, they're radio signals informing operators about spacecraft health and operational parameters.
Learn more
Satellite beacons serve as the primary health monitoring system for amateur satellites in low Earth orbit. Anyone may receive these telemetry transmissions without special authorization - they're intentionally unencrypted public broadcasts. When operating satellites, compare your downlink signal strength to the beacon strength to determine proper uplink power levels. This prevents overloading the satellite transponder and ensures fair access for all users during the brief overhead passes.
Think about it
Why do you think satellite beacons are designed to be receivable by anyone, including unlicensed individuals, when most amateur radio communications require a license?