Early geosynchronous satellites, orbiting more than 35,000 kilometers (22,000 miles) above the Earth, faced a problem: a voice signal traveling from Earth to a satellite and back developed an echo, making phone conversation difficult. In the early 1970s, COMSAT Laboratories developed an "echo canceller" to correct this problem. This invention made communications via satellite similar in quality to local telephone calls and enhanced public acceptance of the new technology.
COMSAT Laboratories donated this artifact to the Museum in 1999.
Display Status
This object is on display in One World Connected at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.
Object Details
Country of Origin
United States of America
Type
EQUIPMENT-Communications Devices
Manufacturer
COMSAT Laboratories
Dimensions
3-D (5k): 48.3 × 17.8 × 12.7cm (1 ft. 7 in. × 7 in. × 5 in.)
3-D: 5kg (11lb.)
Materials
Aluminum
Ferrous Alloy
Plastics
Paper
Ink
Adhesive
Paint
Copper Alloy
Electronic Components
Inventory Number
A19990146000
Credit Line
Gift of COMSAT Laboratories.
Data Source
National Air and Space Museum
Restrictions & Rights
Usage conditions apply
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