Some of the best devices in science have been anticipated by science fiction writers years before they existed. Occasionally a writer comes up with an idea that can be put into practice within their lifetime! Such is the case with the geostationary satellite, first imagined by Arthur C. Clarke. Clarke, famous for writing "2001: A Space Odyssey," also wrote a scientific article titled "Extra-Terrestrial Relays" in 1945. In it, he proposed a satellite that would remain motionless in the air, rather than passing by overhead. Such a "fixed" satellite would be useful for relaying television and radio signals, helping ships navigate, and a host of other things.