The above information refers in each case to the center of the country / region.
For Thuraya and Inmarsat we have indicated the elevation angle to the satellite and the azimuth. The flatter the satellite is above the horizon, the more difficult the reception will be depending on topography and buildings. This should clarify our classification. For fixed installations, the elevation angle is not crucial as long as the antenna has a clear view to the satellite.
Iridium has orbiting satellites. Here the proximity to the equator plays the decisive role, because at the equator the satellite density of the Iridium network is lowest. On the sea, however, this is negligible because there is a clear view all around, even to satellites located flat above the horizon.
The use of satellite communications in India is strictly prohibited
Guidlines regarding use of satellite phones in India The use in India of any telegraph services/devices, including wireless, is regulated by the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885. Satellite telephone services are ordinarily not permitted in India.
As per existing guidelines issued by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) of the Government of lndia, INMARSAT satellite phones, excluding BGAN systems, can be used by foreign nationals belonging to government Organizations or corporate houses, Or by memberS of mountaineering expeditions and other such categories of persons onlv with prior oermission from DoT. The only authorized provider of INMARSAT services in lndia is Tata Communications Limited, which provides such services after a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for carrying satellite phones into lndia is issued by DoT on a case by case basis. Details of the procedure for obtaining the NOC can be obtained from the DoT website – www.dot.sov.in. Foreign nationals wishing to carry an INMARSAT terminal into lndia should apply for an NOC to the CS Cell, DoT, Room No.1204, Sanchar Bhawan, 20 Ashoka Road, New Delhi-110 001. Intending users of satellite phone services may also please note that use of the Thuraya satellite phone service is not permitted in lndia.
It is pointed out for the benefit of travellers to India that anyone making unauthorized use of any telegraphic devices including satellite phones in India without prior permission of DoT violates Section 4 of the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885 and can be prosecuted under Section 20 and 21 of the said Act, as well as Section 6 of the Indian Wireless Act. Moreover, in the absence of a license from DoT, satellite phones being brought in baggage/hand baggage are liable to confiscation/detention by Indian Customs authorities. In case of import as cargo, a declaration should to be given by the person importing the goods about the details of the goods/systems being imported. All intending visitors are advised to make a declaration to Indian Customs to this effect at the first port of entry.
12.07.2023 - Notification from Indian Director General of Shipping
This notification clarifies the regulatory rules and conditions (including equipment certification, registration, and declaration requirements) for ships carrying satellite communications equipment that are transiting or visiting Indian waters. The notification covers both GMDSS and non-GMDSS satellite equipment.
Please note: Despite careful editing, we can not guarantee the completeness and timeliness as well as actual availability. Political conditions in particular can change quickly in some cases.