Remote sensing satellites, navigation satellites and communication satellites are some common types of satellites, which are used in different use scenarios. Not all satellites can be used for remote sensing, navigation and positioning, and different satellites have different priorities.
Remote sensing satellite
A remote sensing satellite is a satellite that observes and monitors the Earth’s surface from space through satellites carrying various sensors and camera equipment. They can capture images of the Earth’s surface, detect various data such as the atmosphere, oceans and land, and use these data to analyze and monitor the natural environment, geological activity, climate change, agricultural production, etc. The main function of remote sensing satellites is to obtain information on the earth’s surface for scientific research, military reconnaissance, resource exploration and so on.
Navigation satellite
A navigation satellite is a type of satellite used to provide global Positioning System (GPS) services. By transmitting a set of positioning signals, navigation satellites can provide precise position information to receiving devices on the ground. Such satellites can be used for civilian, commercial and military purposes, such as car navigation, aircraft navigation, ship positioning and so on.
Communication satellite
A communication satellite is a satellite used for data communication. They transmit data over long distances by receiving signals from equipment on the ground and then forwarding those signals elsewhere. Communication satellites play an important role in television broadcasting, Internet connection, telephone communication and so on.
Different orbit
Remote sensing satellites usually travel in geosynchronous orbit. Navigation satellites include those in geostationary orbit, as well as those in inclined geosynchronous orbit and medium circular Earth orbit. Communication satellites are generally in geostationary orbit, but large elliptical orbit, medium orbit and low orbit communication satellites are also used
The main difference between these satellites is their purpose and function. Remote sensing satellites are mainly used to acquire information and data on the earth surface, and are widely used in scientific research, military reconnaissance and resource exploration. Navigation satellites are used to provide global positioning System services, providing positioning and navigation information to equipment on the ground. Communications satellites are used for long-distance data communications, including television broadcasts, Internet connections and telephone communications.