Which problem is least likely to cause issues tracking the satellite in an Inmarsat-C SES while at sea?

Local RF interference from cell phones is least likely to cause issues tracking the satellite in an Inmarsat-C Ship Earth Station (SES) while at sea for several reasons. First, Inmarsat-C operates in a frequency range that is typically less susceptible to the type of interference generated by standard cell phones. The technology and frequency separation used in satellite communications make it inherently resilient to minor RF disturbances.

Moreover, cell phones operate at relatively low power levels compared to the signals used by satellite systems, which means they are less likely to impact satellite tracking capabilities significantly, especially when the SES is properly configured and functioning.

In stark contrast, extremely heavy rain or snow storms can create significant attenuation of the satellite signal, making it challenging to maintain a reliable connection. Shadowing caused by obstacles such as hills or other structures can obstruct the line of sight to the satellite, severely affecting tracking. Lastly, being on the fringe of the coverage area can lead to diminished signal strength and increased difficulty in maintaining an optimal link, resulting in potential tracking issues.

Understanding these factors highlights the robustness of Inmarsat-C systems against specific types of interference, contributing to the reliability of satellite communications even in challenging maritime environments.