Page 22 - SATELLITE AND RADAR COMMUNICATION SYSTEM

1.4 Apply the understanding

of the look angle of a satellite

Look angles of a satellite

Knowing the location of the satellite is insufficient information for most earth stations
that must communicate with the satellite. The earth station need to know the
azimuth and elevation settings of its antenna to intercept the satellite.

Satellite

Figure 1.10: Look angle

Elevation Angle

 The angle of elevation is the angle between the horizontal plane and the pointing
direction of the antenna.
 The smaller the angle of elevation, the greater the distance a propagated wave

must pass through the earth's atmosphere.
 As distance increases, the signal quality deteriorates.
 Generally, 5° is considered as the minimum acceptable angle of elevation.

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Figure 1.11: Elevation angle

Introduction to Satellite Communication System