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Reasons Why Artificial Satellites Are Launched

The moon is a natural satellite moving around the Earth. Scientists now use naturally occurring forces like gravity to place artificial satellites in orbit. Satellite launches are expensive, but the cost is often recouped from satellite customers, such as cell phone users and television viewers. Other artificial satellites are deemed worth the expense of a launch and maintenance because they further the pursuit of scientific knowledge.

Visual Data
- Since satellites orbit the earth at least 100 miles above the ground, the bird's eye view it receives allows it to gather a wide array of data about the ground below. When a scientist collects and analyzes the data, he can use the information for a variety of practical purposes. One example is satellite navigation, where people on the ground can navigate unknown roads and areas while in a vehicle. Satellites can also detect topographical features such as forests, waterways and mountains. Governments and industry can use this information to plan infrastructure and control the impact of development on the land. In addition, the satellite can collect pictures of space in the opposite direction. Astronomers can study far away galaxies and planets in detail using this technology.
Communications
- The transmission of information all around the world is a benefit of satellites to a large part of the global population. Television programs can reach the entire world, and customers do not need an extensive network of cables to receive the signal so even remote areas of the world can connect. Telephone communication can also route through satellites rather than through expensive underground or surface cables. Radio is another mode of communication that can use satellite technology to reach a larger audience. Business and industry also use the rapid satellite communication to keep up-to-date with relevant developments elsewhere in the world.
Ecological Studies
- Weather systems may be visible on a satellite feed and meteorologists can track extreme weather events such as hurricanes and storms using this technology. The information helps warn vulnerable ships or populations of impending danger and natural disasters. Daily weather forecasts have also become more accurate due to satellite data.
Research
- The pursuit of knowledge is another primary use of artificial satellites, although it is not always immediately profitable. Apart from the visual images of outer space, satellites can pick up radiation signals that an astronomer can interpret as celestial bodies and events like pulsars that she might not be able to see. Scientists also monitor glacial melt and other environmental dynamics on the Earth's surface using satellites.
Military Applications
- Satellite information like images of the Earth and foreign military movements on the planet's surface are useful for governments and military organizations. Satellites may be able to pinpoint the location of a particular wanted man and direct land forces to that location. Another potential of satellites is as a base for a weapon that can attack targets from orbit.

Astronomy