Two basic questions about satellite communication

[senmeis]

Hi,

1. Is it correct that gateway stations (or teleports?) must be used for spot beam satellite systems? That means, two user terminals cannot communicate directly with each other.

2. Are satellite beacons widely used?

Senmeis

 

[senmeis]

I asked the second question because of these devices: https://www.avcomofva.com/beacon-receivers/.

 

[mfb]

I'm not aware of operational systems where user terminals can communicate directly with each other via satellite, but the upcoming satellite internet constellations (here is a thread) plan this.