Analysis of the November 23, 1980 earthquake as a design basis for satellite emergency communication

The earthquake that occurred in Italy in November 1980 is discussed in order to show how satellites can be used for communication during emergencies. Five functions are identified where human intervention could reduce the consequences of earthquakes; these are predicting the occurrence of the earthquake, locating the earthquake focus, evaluating the damage and identifying life lines, localizing the survivors in need, and providing communications. Satellites are shown to be applicable in all these functions. It is proposed that a Direct Television Broadcasting satellite be used for emergency communication. The features offered by this satellite are listed, among them the fact that the communications link to the area of the disaster is immediately available and that no installation with specialized personnel is required. It is also noted that the TV receiving antenna that would be used for emergency communication is already pointed toward the satellite.