Buscando el satélite de Platzi

How to locate the Platzi satellite from your device?

Once you have your satellite station set up, the next crucial step is to locate the Platzi satellite. To facilitate this process, Platzi has developed a web tool that will allow you to know precisely the location and trajectory of the satellite. This tool is accessible from any browser, either on your computer or cell phone, although it is recommended to use your mobile device because of its GPS location capability.

How to use the satellite location tool?

1. Accessing the tool: Go to the link provided in the class resources to open the web application. The main interface will display a map with Platzi's current satellite position.

2. Automatic focus: If you cannot find the satellite on the map, use the "focus" option to automatically center it on the screen. This feature is especially useful when you lose sight of the satellite.

3. Trajectory forecast: See the line projected from the satellite on the map; this represents its future trajectory, allowing you to estimate approximately what time it will pass over your location.

4. Using directional antennas: Enable the "track" option to receive real-time updates on the satellite's position. This requires allowing access to your device's GPS to calculate accurate viewing angles.

What are viewing angles and how are they used?

To correctly position a directional antenna, it is essential to understand viewing angles: elevation and azimuth.

• Elevation: This is the angle between a horizontal line from your position and the direct line up. For example, when the sun is at its highest point at noon, you are looking at an elevation of 90 degrees. To view the horizon, the elevation would be 0 degrees. This angle indicates the vertical tilt needed for your antenna.

• Azimuth: This is the angle measured from geographic north to the right, clockwise. It starts at 0 degrees looking towards the North Pole and increases as you turn to the right. Thus, when you reach the east, you would be at 90 degrees. With the combination of elevation and azimuth, you can orient your antenna precisely.

What are the advantages of directional and omnidirectional antennas?

Understanding the types of antennas and their application is vital depending on the satellite mission objective:

• Directional antennas: These are ideal for data transmissions, as they concentrate the signal in a specific direction, greatly improving signal reception and emission.

• Omnidirectional antennas (ground plane): Although for less demanding reception objectives, such as listening to messages, omnidirectional antennas are sufficient and easy to use. They pick up signals from any direction, without the need for precise orientation adjustments.

In short, knowing Platzi's satellite location and how to properly adjust your equipment is critical to effective communication. Take advantage of the tools at your disposal to optimize your experience on upcoming space missions - keep exploring and learning to maximize your satellite communication capabilities!