Question

The minimum number of geostationary satellites needed for uninterrupted global coverage is

(A) 3

(B) 2

(C) 4

(D) 1

Answer 1

(A) 3

 In theory, 2 satellites in diametrically opposite geo-symchronous orbits could cover the planet. In order for the satellites to communicate, a minimum of 3 would be needed, each at a 60 degree angle to the others. At this point, the strength and quality of coverage increases proportionally to the number of satellites.