This is essentially the signal or group of signals that is sent from the satellite to the surface of the Earth. This surface, defined by the beam, is the satellite 'footprint', ie the area on Earth where the beam can be captured and used. No one satellite can transmit a beam to the entire Earth, though theoretically three equally spaced satellites in a network could cover the entire Earth.

satellite transmission pattern. It may be wide, narrow or spot.

A portion of the satellite footprint at L-band and S-band. The satellite footprint is divided into 16 beams.

a column of light (as from a beacon)

The word beam describes a signal that is transmitted over a narrow path. Satellites use a beam to transmit information from the satellite orbiting the Earth to the Antenna that catches the information. The antenna catches the beam as a data stream and routes this through the satellite cables into your TV. The satellite beams form a footprint over certain areas, showing the coverage and signal strength over various regions. The stronger the beam, the more area it can cover and the better the signal reception.

Each satellite within a system has a number of transmitting elements. These transmit a number of programmes down to a set area of the Earthâ€(tm)s surface, called the "Footprint". It is only within this footprint that the programmes are intended to be received. A larger dish is required at the edges of the footprint.

i) The electron stream that generates a picture on the surface of a TV tube; ii) A type of highly directional antenna /aerials, radiating in one general direction but capable of providing high power signal gains.

A unidirectional flow of radio waves concentrated in a particular direction. A term commonly used to refer to an antenna's radiation pattern by analogy with a light beam. It is most often used to describe the radiation pattern of satellite antennas. The intersection of a satellite beam with the earth's surface is referred to as the (beam's) footprint.

A satellite transmission pattern, which may be wide, narrow or spot. This affects the satellites footprint.

A portion of a satellite antenna's footprint on earth. A typical satellite footprint is divided into a large number of beams.

The main lobe of an antenna radiation pattern. A column of light.

an antenna that gives a directional beam pattern. Also called a Yagi.