Distance of a satellite from earth

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the height of a satellite based on the time delay of a microwave signal received from it. The signal takes 68 milliseconds to reach Earth, leading to the conclusion that the satellite's height is approximately 20,400,000 meters, derived from the equation h = ct, where c is the speed of light (3 x 10^8 m/s). The participants emphasize that the problem is straightforward once the correct relationship between speed, time, and distance is recognized. The final height calculation indicates a range between 12,700 and 9,300 miles, depending on the satellite's position in the sky.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of the speed of light (c = 3 x 10^8 m/s)
  • Basic knowledge of time-distance calculations
  • Familiarity with the concept of microwave signals
  • Ability to manipulate simple algebraic equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of satellite communication and signal transmission
  • Learn about the physics of microwave signals and their propagation
  • Explore the mathematical relationships in kinematics, specifically distance, speed, and time
  • Investigate the effects of satellite positioning on signal timing and distance calculations
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics or engineering, satellite communication professionals, and anyone interested in understanding satellite distance calculations and signal propagation.

skiing4free
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Distance of a satellite from earth...

Homework Statement


A microwave signal is received from a satellite in orbit round earth, 68 ms after it was transmitted from the satellite. Calculate the height of the satellite?

This sounds like such a simple questions and i reckon it is except i always seem to get stumped... I first tried to figure out the angular velocity of the satellite but you don't know enough information to calculate that, then i kept going round in circles? What am i missing??
A poke in the right direction would be very appreciated...
 
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The problem is much simpler than you are thinking!

You know the Speed of the signal (c), and you know the time it took to get down to earth. What equation most simply relates speed and time with the variable you are looking for?
 


According to my calculations it's indeterminate, but somewhere between 12.7 and 9.3 thousand miles away, to be determined by position in the sky.
 


h=ct and c=3x10^8 so h=2.04x10^7m Thanks Gib Z
wow that was incredibly easy! jezz i really need think a bit more
 

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