How it works
The parts of a satellite are fixed to one box, the bus. This drawing shows seven parts on the outside and two inside, seen through a window torn in the blanket.
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Power, talk, look
NASA says most satellites share at least two parts: an antenna, which sends and receives information, and a power source. Solar panels turn sunlight into electricity and a battery stores it for the shadow. Many satellites also carry cameras and other sensors.
Pointing the right way
A star tracker reads the stars to tell which way the satellite faces. Reaction wheels and small thrusters then turn it, and the thrusters also trim its orbit.
Questions and answers
What are the main parts of a satellite?
The bus, which is the body, plus an antenna and a power source, usually solar panels with a battery. Most also have thrusters, something to sense direction such as a star tracker, and the instruments they were sent up to carry.
How does a satellite get power?
From sunlight. Solar panels turn it into electricity, and batteries charge while the panels are lit so the satellite keeps working in shadow.
What is a satellite bus?
The main body and structure of the satellite. It holds the instruments and gives every other part, inside and out, a place to attach.
Why are satellites wrapped in foil?
The wrap is a thermal blanket made of many thin layers of insulation. It reflects heat and protects the satellite from too much heating by the Sun.