Re: [Paddlewise] SPOT - A few observations

From: alex <al.m_at_3web.net>
Date: Tue, 30 Sep 2008 20:35:43 -0700
> This week, I triggered an "OK" inside a subway tunnel.  SPOT claimed that
the transmission was successful.  Unlikely.  It can't even get a GPS signal
inside the tunnel.

Interesting. And doesn't inspire much confidence.

> SPOT  was unable to find satellites within the city core.  The tall
skyscrapers were probably blocking the signal.  It seems to me that it would
be helpful to know where on the horizon that SPOT would find the closest
Satellite.  If I had gone to the opposite side of the street, perhaps Spot
would have found a Satellite to talk to?

I think, the Southern horizon. At least, this is where GPS and TV satellites
are - close to equator, i.e. in the Southern direction from the Northen
hemispehere. You can probably find or calculate the satellites elevation
angles at your latitude, but it should be higher than 25 degrees. You might
stll be out of luck on either side of the East-West street lined with tall
buildings or East-West canyon (if my assumption of equatorial orbit is
correct).
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Received on Tue Sep 30 2008 - 20:38:17 PDT

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