The idea for satellites came from Arthur C. Clarke in 1945. After much research and testing, mankind was able to implement Clarke's vision. Score consisted of two radio receivers and two transmitters. Since then, many more satellites have been launched into space. There are also weather satellites, which transmit complex images of cloud patterns and global positioning satellites that tell you your location on earth and allow for navigation.
Most satellites operate in a geosynchronous orbit.
This means that the satellite orbits earth every 24 hours and because of this, appears to be in the same location. Satellites are usually 35,400 km above the earth's surface. They are kept in orbit by the gravitational pull of the earth. Satellites are launched into space by using a rocket or a space shuttle. Solar cells provide energy when the satellite is in the path of sunlight and batteries provide energy during dark phases.