// ORBITAL LOGISTICS AND PROPULSION TERM
Transponder
A device on a satellite that receives a signal, amplifies it, and retransmits it on a different frequency, enabling communication between ground stations.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
A transponder is a key component of a communications satellite payload that receives an uplink signal at one frequency, amplifies it, and retransmits it as a downlink signal at a different frequency, acting as a relay for telecommunications, broadcasting, and data services between ground terminals.
BACKGROUND
Space economy refers to the set of activities, industries, technologies, services, and resources that generate economic value through the space exploration, understanding, management, and exploitation of outer space.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Satellite relay
- comms relay
- repeater
- satellite channel
USAGE NOTE
The number and capacity of transponders determine a satellite's communication throughput.