How is maximum coverage provided by satellites in the maritime satellite service?

The correct answer is based on the principle that satellites in geostationary orbit maintain a fixed position relative to the Earth's surface. This means that four satellites placed in geostationary orbit at approximately 22,184 miles above the equator can provide consistent coverage to a large area of the Earth, particularly in maritime contexts. This positioning allows the satellites to continuously communicate with ships and other vessels, ensuring robust and reliable service.

This orbit allows for effective line-of-sight communication, which is critical for maritime safety and operations. By using four satellites, the system can achieve broad coverage, allowing for redundancy and ensuring that coverage is maintained even if one satellite experiences a failure or is undergoing maintenance.

Additionally, the orbital altitude of about 22,184 miles allows these satellites to effectively cover regions beyond the horizon from a vessel's perspective, which is vital in maritime environments where wide geographic coverage is needed due to the expansive nature of the oceans. Using fewer satellites could lead to gaps in coverage, especially in higher latitudes or during aggressive weather conditions.

While the other choices mention other satellite configurations or services, they do not encapsulate the optimal arrangement for maximum coverage specifically within the maritime context as effectively as the use of geo-stationary satellites at the