how does a satellite phone work Page 25

A satellite phone skips the mobile towers and talks straight to satellites, which then shuttle your call to ground stations and the normal phone network.

Some use low-Earth-orbit constellations for broad coverage and quicker handshakes, while geostationary systems add a noticeable half-second delay but need fewer handoffs.

They need clear sky—step outside, extend the stubby antenna, and keep a line-of-sight; in cars or buildings you’ll want an external antenna or expect drop-outs.

Data is slow (kilobits, not megabits), voice is fine, and you’ll need a service plan or prepaid SIM plus a battery that drains faster than your enthusiasm in a tunnel.

In Australia the useful satellites sit to the north, so point that way and you’ll be heard well beyond the back of Bourke.