TV signal range question

[Dawgsfan]

I came across this story about a man in Ontario, Canada who picked up North Korean TV broadcasts with what I think is a C-band satellite. I'm guessing the signals were FTA.

From a technical perspective, how is this possible? I didn't think a satellite TV signal could travel that far. How large can satellite footprints be? Thanks.


View: https://youtu.be/eBknQAwKe8c

 

[Keith Brannen]

Looking on lyngsat.com, Korean Central TV is available in North America on Intelsat 21 at 58W on C Band. So, while unusual in that it is available, would assume it would be easy to receive (can't verify it myself, as I don't have a C Band dish).

Satellite footprint:

Intelsat 21 at 58.0°W - LyngSat Maps

 

[Dawgsfan]

Looking on lyngsat.com, Korean Central TV is available in North America on Intelsat 21 at 58W on C Band. So, while unusual in that it is available, would assume it would be easy to receive (can't verify it myself, as I don't have a C Band dish).

Satellite footprint:

Intelsat 21 at 58.0°W - LyngSat Maps

This is awesome. Thanks for sharing it.

So it looks like this signal is intentionally aimed at the Americas, not a signal beamed toward NK that happened to make its way to North America.

I've never looked at a map like this, but can I assume that the higher numbers on the 31-42+ scale indicate where the signal is strongest and where a smaller (cheaper?) dish could pull it in? That would make sense, as it is strongest in Central and South America where, historically, NK might've found supportive communist and/or rogue regimes.

 

[cyberham]

...So it looks like this signal is intentionally aimed at the Americas...

I am in Japan and I am actively attempting to receive the Korean Central TV signal on C-band here. The signal originates from 96.5E Express 103. It is reported to be 42 dBW at my location so it should be easily receivable on my 1-metre dish. It seems I have no 5G interference in my particular location that I'm aware of which may allow me to receive it.

I am being slowed by mundane temporary problems. When renovations on my home are complete so I can re-install my dish in my yard then I will be able to see around my neighbour's house. This will allow me to view the satellite at 96.5E Express 103. This satellite carries the Korean station in HD quality.

Korean Central TV footprint from 96.5E Express 103:

 

[Mr Tony]

He's been posting it on YouTube for 9-10 months now sometimes daily or a few 'episodes' a week

https://youtube.com/@peterfairlie2296/videos

 

[telstar_1]

This is digital?

 

[cyberham]

This is digital?

DVB-S2 QPSK FEC 3/4 HD digital here. Only SD in North America.