This activity uses the familiar format of the relay race to illustrate the delay between sending and receiving a message via satellite. Put each team's set of numbered cups on desks against the center back wall. Problems may arise when contradictory signals are received by the robot who as a consequence may not know what to do. The team that completes the space station first is the winner.
Actual satellites are useful because they can relay information over several thousand miles.
Delays occur because it takes time for the radio signals to travel to their destination via satellite.