What's inside a satellite
- 1. What's Inside a satellite: Satellites are made of a lightweight but solid metal or composite that's lined with a thermal blanket. They are equipped with a power source (solar cells or batteries). They all have an onboard computer to control their systems. A radio and antenna are onboard to receive signals and a repeater amplifies the signal before returning it to Earth. An attitude control system (gas-fueled jets) keep the satellite pointed in the right direction. Some satellites also have cameras or mirrors for taking photographs.
- 3. Graphic courtesy of NASAexplores.com.