Satellite telephones facilitate communication from almost any location on Earth. These devices connect to orbiting satellites instead of terrestrial cellular towers, enabling voice and data transmission where conventional mobile networks are unavailable. The underlying mechanism involves transmitting radio signals to a satellite, which then relays the signal to another satellite or a ground station connected to the public switched telephone network (PSTN).
The ability to communicate from remote areas offers numerous advantages, particularly in emergency situations, disaster relief efforts, scientific expeditions, and maritime operations. Historically, this technology has played a crucial role in connecting individuals and organizations operating beyond the reach of traditional infrastructure. The initial high cost and large size of the equipment have decreased significantly, making the technology more accessible.