key term - Intelsat I

Definition

Intelsat I, also known as Early Bird, was the first commercial communications satellite launched in 1965. This satellite revolutionized satellite broadcasting by enabling transatlantic television and telecommunications transmissions, paving the way for the global satellite communication industry. It marked a significant milestone in broadcasting technology by providing reliable, high-quality signals for television and radio across long distances.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Intelsat I was launched on April 6, 1965, aboard a Delta D rocket from Cape Canaveral, Florida.
2. This satellite was placed in a geostationary orbit, allowing it to maintain a constant position over the same spot on Earth, which is crucial for stable communication.
3. Intelsat I provided a significant increase in communication capacity, allowing for multiple telephone conversations and television broadcasts simultaneously.
4. The success of Intelsat I led to the establishment of the Intelsat organization, which became a key player in international satellite communications and broadcasting.
5. Intelsat I operated until 1990, demonstrating the longevity and reliability of early satellite technology.

Review Questions

• How did Intelsat I contribute to the development of global communication networks?
  • Intelsat I played a pivotal role in the development of global communication networks by being the first commercial communications satellite that enabled reliable transatlantic broadcasts. Its ability to transmit television signals across vast distances transformed how information was shared globally. By facilitating international phone calls and television broadcasts, Intelsat I set the foundation for future advancements in satellite communication technology.
• Discuss the significance of geostationary orbit for Intelsat I and its impact on satellite broadcasting.
  • The placement of Intelsat I in geostationary orbit was crucial for its functionality as it allowed the satellite to remain in a fixed position relative to Earth. This stability enabled continuous coverage of specific regions without the need for tracking antennas on the ground. As a result, it greatly improved the reliability of satellite broadcasting, making it possible for stations to deliver consistent programming without interruptions caused by signal drift.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of Intelsat I on modern satellite communication and broadcasting practices.
  • Intelsat I had lasting effects on modern satellite communication and broadcasting practices by laying the groundwork for subsequent generations of satellites. Its successful operation demonstrated the viability of satellite technology for commercial use, leading to increased investment in the field. Today, satellites are integral to global communications infrastructure, enabling services such as television broadcasting, internet access, and international telecommunications, all of which can trace their roots back to innovations like Intelsat I.

Related terms

Satellite Communication: A technology that uses satellites to send and receive data, voice, and video signals over long distances, enabling global connectivity.

Transponder: A device on a satellite that receives incoming signals, amplifies them, and retransmits them back to Earth on a different frequency.

Geostationary Orbit: An orbit around Earth where a satellite remains in a fixed position relative to the surface, typically located at an altitude of about 35,786 kilometers (22,236 miles).