We are able to go anywhere in the world and transmit data through a satellite network that has the capacity to transfer at the rate of 64kbps. We use this technology to do remote webcasts which can be seen through RealMedia and we use it to transfer other data such as email and web browser material.

We use a unit called a Polycom Video Conferencing unit to send back vidoe and audio from a remote site and the data comes back to NASA Ames Research Center where it is encoded on a computer and streamed to whoever has Real Player.

The satellite unit that we use to send data whether it be through the Polycom or a network router is called an Inmarsat unit. It is a small laptop sized device which folds out into a flat panel dish.

Below are some images to better illustrate how this technology works.

The Nera World Communicator M4 (Below)

Illustration of the four satellites available to use as well as coverage areas (Below)

Example of an Earthstation able to receive data transmissions from the remote side satellite (Below)

Diagram of Satellite Transmission

Polycom Video Conferencing unit (Below)