Many satellites are in space today.  Most of these satellites were lifted into space using mustilage rockets.  Most of the other percentage of satellites were brought to space by the space shuttle.  When these satellites are released, if they are to orbit the Earth, they are positioned at least 100 miles above the Earth's surface, so the atmosphere will not drag the satellite.

    The satellites need to survive in space, so they require unique and durable technologies.  Artificial satellites have their own power source because they cannot recieve it from Earth.  The satellites need to stay in the correct position to accomplish their mission.  Most satellites have computers in them to help them.

    The communications of a satellite is essential to the functions of the satellite.  There are many satellite components for communication.  All must be reliable and light.  Another important component is command and data.  The command and data consists of computers that gather and process data for information, aboard the satellite.  These also execute commands from the Earth to the satellite.  The most important satellite component is a reliable power supply.  No satellite can function without a power supply.

    The functions of satellites are carried out by different subsystems.  The main subsystem, the power supply, is the basis of all satellite functions.  From the power source, satellites can communicate and recieve and send data to and from Earth.  Together, these subsystems perform the functions that make satellites work.