Deep Dive: T8B01
The correct answer is C: Health and status of the satellite. Satellite beacons typically transmit health and status information about the satellite. This telemetry data includes information about the satellite's systems (battery voltage, solar panel output, temperature, operating mode, etc.) that helps operators understand the satellite's condition and predict its availability. For amateur radio operators, monitoring satellite beacons is essential for knowing when satellites are operational and what their status is. This information helps plan contacts and understand satellite performance.
Why Other Answers Are Wrong
Option A: Incorrect. Signal strength of received signals is measured by ground stations, not transmitted by satellite beacons. Beacons transmit satellite status, not ground station measurements. Option B: Incorrect. While some satellites provide time information, it's not typically accurate to ±1/10 second, and it's not the primary telemetry function. Health and status are the main beacon functions. Option D: Incorrect. Since A and B are not correct, 'all of the above' cannot be correct. Health and status are the primary telemetry functions.
Exam Tip
Satellite beacons = health and status. Think 'B'eacon = 'B'roadcasts satellite 'B'ody (health/status). Telemetry includes battery, solar, temperature, operating mode - information about the satellite's condition, not ground station measurements.
Memory Aid
Satellite beacons = health and status. Think 'B'eacon = 'B'roadcasts 'B'ody (health/status) information. Telemetry about satellite systems, not ground station measurements.
Real-World Example
You monitor an amateur satellite's beacon on 145.980 MHz. The beacon transmits telemetry showing battery voltage (13.8V), solar panel current (2.5A), internal temperature (25°C), and operating mode (transponder active). This tells you the satellite is healthy and ready for use. Without this telemetry, you wouldn't know if the satellite is operational.
Source & Coverage
Question Pool: 2022-2026 Question Pool
Subelement: T8B
Reference: 2022-2026 Question Pool · T8 - Signals and emissions
Key Concepts
Verified Content
Question from the official FCC Technician Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the T8B topic.