How Satellite Phones Work in Disasters

Satellite phones continue working in disasters that render cellular and landline phones inoperable.

Satellite phones help first responders in disaster areas contact relief providers to arrange direct delivery of emergency supplies. Satellite phones are portable and do not depend on cell towers or landlines to work.

Land-based Communications

Traditional landline telephone and fiber optic lines can be damaged by natural or manmade disasters, which can require days or even weeks to repair. First responders with satellite phones set up an instant emergency infrastructure for rapid communications.

Land-based Broadcast Systems

Commercial radio and television stations are also part of our emergency communications systems. If these stations are damaged and cannot function, satellite phones can fill in for the broadcast stations' emergency functions.

Cellular Telephone Networks

Cell phones require a network of cellular towers to communicate across the nation. If the cellular towers are damaged or deprived of power, they cannot function as an emergency communication system during disasters.

How Satellite Phones Work

Any two or more satellite phones can communicate with each other via satellite.

References

• The Economist: Dealing with disasters Flood, famine and mobile phones
• FCC: SIA First responders guide to Satellite Communications