If satellites are orbiting around and around the earth, I don't understand how someone can position a receiver dish (like with Dish or DirectTV) and receive a constant and continuous signal, even with the satellite in space moving around the earth?
Answers (1)
The satellite is in a geostationary position, it is moving in relation to the rotation of the Earth and therefore stays permanently overhead or casts a broadcast shadow which is the extent of its range of coverage. Most satellites are organized this way, it is not common practise to place a satellite into an orbit whereby it moves faster (or slower) than the rotation of the Earth. Exceptions are mapping, military and roving GPS satellties amongst others but only very rarely communications satellites.