How often do communication satellites in geosynchronous orbit experience sun outages?

How often do communication satellites in geosynchronous orbit experience sun outages?

• A. Once a month
• B. Twice per year
• C. Every six months
• D. Weekly

Answer: (B)

Communication satellites in geosynchronous orbit experience sun outages twice per year, which is the correct answer to the question. This phenomenon occurs when the sun is directly behind the satellite relative to the earth's position. During these times, sunlight can interfere with the satellite’s signals, causing temporary disruptions. Geostationary satellites maintain a fixed position relative to the earth, and as the earth orbits the sun, the satellite will line up with the sun twice in a year, typically around the equinoxes in March and September. This alignment is predictable and allows for planning around these outages, as operators can expect these interruptions and prepare for them. Other options, such as once a month, every six months, or weekly, do not align with the mechanics of the sun's position in relation to the satellite's orbit and the earth's rotation. The twice-per-year occurrence is a well-established phenomenon in satellite communications, providing a reliable schedule for operators to anticipate and address signal disruptions.

Communication satellites in geosynchronous orbit experience sun outages twice per year, which is the correct answer to the question. This phenomenon occurs when the sun is directly behind the satellite relative to the earth's position. During these times, sunlight can interfere with the satellite’s signals, causing temporary disruptions.

Geostationary satellites maintain a fixed position relative to the earth, and as the earth orbits the sun, the satellite will line up with the sun twice in a year, typically around the equinoxes in March and September. This alignment is predictable and allows for planning around these outages, as operators can expect these interruptions and prepare for them.

Other options, such as once a month, every six months, or weekly, do not align with the mechanics of the sun's position in relation to the satellite's orbit and the earth's rotation. The twice-per-year occurrence is a well-established phenomenon in satellite communications, providing a reliable schedule for operators to anticipate and address signal disruptions.