Communication
Seismic measurement data from the surface of Venus is transmitted to the Earth station in two steps. The Lander unit collects the data continuously and stores it. When the orbiter satellite revolving around Venus flies overhead the Lander unit, the Lander transmits the data. This occurs once every 8hours. Every time the orbiter receives data, it transmits the same to the Earth station. By employing such a two-stage link, a) the on-board storage for the lander and the satellite can be reduced greatly; b) the earth station can receive data more frequently; and c) the risk of losing data because of the surface unit failing is minimal.
