What frequency range do Martian orbiters typically utilize when transmitting relayed scientific data down to Earth stations?
Answer
X-band frequency range
Once a Martian orbiter, such as the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter, receives data from a rover via UHF, it then transmits that information onward to Earth. The orbiter uses its own much more powerful transmitter and larger antenna system for this long-haul journey. The specific frequency range designated for this downlink from the orbiter to Earth is generally the X-band. This band allows for a much stronger and faster transmission than the rover could manage on its own, converting the weak, slow two-hop rover link into a robust, high-throughput single link from the orbiter to the Deep Space Network antennas on Earth.
#Videos
How Mars rover Curiosity communicates with Earth - YouTube
Related Questions
What is the range of the one-way light time delay for commands traveling from Earth to Mars?What two critical factors severely constrain the direct communication link a rover uses via its High-Gain Antenna (HGA)?Which antenna type is typically employed by Martian rovers for the more common, power-efficient link with an orbiting spacecraft?What frequency range do Martian orbiters typically utilize when transmitting relayed scientific data down to Earth stations?What phrase describes the period when controllers must schedule transmission because an orbiter is passing overhead of the rover?What is the designated primary communication gateway on Earth responsible for receiving signals from Mars missions?What key characteristic of the Deep Space Network (DSN) overcomes the challenge posed by Earth's rotation?What must a rover commander balance when deciding between using the HGA for an emergency check-in versus the UHF relay system?What specific procedure is standard for maintaining data integrity when the DSN or an orbiter detects corrupted signal segments?What is the consequence of the one-way time delay for operating a robotic explorer on Mars?