What is the main purpose of an artificial satellite?

The main purpose of an artificial satellite is to enhance communication and data gathering. Artificial satellites are designed for various applications, including communication, weather monitoring, navigation, and scientific research. They orbit the Earth and are equipped with instruments that allow them to transmit information back to ground stations, facilitating global communication networks, television broadcasts, weather forecasting, and data collection for scientific and environmental monitoring.

The other options represent specific functions that might not be applicable to all artificial satellites. For instance, while some satellites might be used for exploration or observation of asteroids, the broader and more common function of satellites is related to communication and data transmission. Living in space is primarily a function of space stations, not satellites, and mining resources is not a current function of artificial satellites but rather a concept associated with future space exploration missions.