The easiest way to grasp the impact of satellite-based technology and space research is to imagine what our lives would be like without it.
Below are 10 things you wouldn't want to do without.
1. TVEven if you don't have satellite TV, broadcasters use satellites to bring you the latest foreign news reports and live coverage of football matches.
Find out how journalists are able to broadcast from some of the most inaccessible locations on the planet using equipment that fits into a backpack.
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2. Traffic directionsThe navigation systems you find in cars that tell you how to get to your destination rely on the GPS satellite system. Read more about satellite navigation.
Gone are the days of only hearing about a traffic jam once you're stuck in it. Learn more about a new traffic information service which uses satellite technology to bring news instantaneously to motorists, allowing a change of route at the touch of a button.
3. The weather forecastForecasting is far more accurate thanks to satellite monitoring of weather systems.
MSG is a new satellite that gives meteorologists 20 times more data than previous satellites - helping produce much more accurate forecasts. Watch a video.
4. Environmental protectionWith satellites we can monitor oil spills, forest fires, fish stocks and check for evidence of climate change. Read more about environmental monitoring.
5. Disaster managementWe're able to assess the scale of natural disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes more quickly and start getting help to their victims. Scientists are also working on ways to predict natural disasters so minimising loss of life. Read more about disaster management.
6. Medical scansCAT scanners and MRI scanners allow more accurate diagnosis and reduce the need for exploratory operations. Both were developed from technology originally used for enhancing images taken of space.
Technology originally used to monitor x-rays in satellites is now being used in medical treatments to help detect and monitor cancerous tumours that affect the bladder. In just a few hours it can produce results that would've taken weeks with standard x-ray machines. Watch a video on this vital new work.
7. Maritime guidanceHow does the captain of a car ferry or cruise liner know where they are sailing? Like the systems you find in cars, ships use GPS. Read more about satellite navigation.
8. MappingFrom charting remote regions to being able to zoom in on an image of your house, satellites are giving us a much better picture of the world.
9. LogisticsHow do shops make sure they always have stocks on the shelves? Big retailers using satellite technology to track their shipments and trucks to make sure goods arrive exactly when they're needed.
10. ArchaeologyUsing satellite imagery and radar, researchers can survey inaccessible regions to look for sites of archaeological interest. It's not quite Tomb Raider, but it's helping find and protect priceless ancient artefacts and buildings.
