1. Unit 2 Unmanned Aircraft
Module 1 The UAS Component
1.4 – Communication

2. Communication Global Positioning System (Space Segment)
Utilizes radio signals from orbiting satellites
US has 24 satellites operational 95% of the time
Constellation arrangement allows for total coverage of the globe
Satellites set in a Medium Earth Orbit at 20,200km (12,550 miles)
Each one circles the Earth twice a day
6 orbital planes with 4 satellites each
Should get at least 4 signals at any time

3. Communication Global Positioning System (Space Segment)
Satellites consist of
Solar panels
Antenna
Internal components
Each satellite has an atomic clock
Accurate to at least a billionth of a second
Accuracy is key, 1/100 of a timing error has a 1860 mile off target calculation

4. Communication Global Positioning System (User Segment) Consists of
Antenna and equipment to trilateration to pinpoint the location
Receives signals that have time, position, and status
GPS device notes the time from the satellite and calculates the distance from the satellite

5. Communication Global Positioning System (Control Segment) Consists of
Master Control Station (MCS)
Monitor Stations
Ground Antennas
Master Control is located in Colorado Springs, Co
Responsible for the management of the system and monitors
Monitoring Stations
Check altitude, position, speed, and overall health of satellites
If errors or changes in orbits corrections can be uploaded to provide accurate information
Checks are done twice a day

6. Communication 107.15 Condition for Safe Operations
No person may operated a civil small unmanned aircraft system unless it is in a condition for safe operation. Prior to each flight, the remote pilot in command must check the small unmanned aircraft system to determine whether it is in a condition for safe operation.
No person may continue flight of the small unmanned aircraft when he or she knows of has reason to know that the small unmanned aircraft system is no longer in a condition for safe operation.