A "satellite" in poker is a type of tournament where the prize is an entry into a larger, more expensive tournament. It's a way for players to have a shot at gaining entry into a tournament without having to pay the full entry fee.

As a result, satellites tend to be most popular when they are for a high-stakes tournament that many players would be otherwise unable to enter.

What is a Satellite in Poker?

A satellite is a tournament where the prizes are primarily entry into a larger, more expensive poker tournament. This allows players to participate in high-stakes tournaments without having to pay the full entry fee.

Understanding Satellites

Satellites are a popular way for players to gain entry into major poker tournaments. They are often much cheaper to enter than the target tournament and are often available online. Players can win a seat in the target tournament by finishing in the top positions.

Playing in Satellites

Playing in satellites requires a different strategy than regular tournaments. Since the goal is to win a seat in a larger tournament rather than cash, the play can be more conservative with players aiming to survive rather than accumulate chips.

For this reason, close study of ICM strategy is the best way to learn how to adjust to the strategic considerations when playing playing satellites.

Example of "Satellite"

Every year, during the World Series of Poker, the hosts casinos put on single-table satellites. These start when all ten seats are filled. The buy -in is $1,100 (with $100 going to the casino as an entry fee) and the winner of the satellite gets a ticket to the $10,000 WSOP Main Event.

• "He entered a satellite and won a seat in the World Series of Poker Main Event."
• "She regularly plays in satellites to gain entry into high-stakes tournaments without having to pay the full buy-in."
• "The poker site offers daily satellites for their weekly high roller tournament."

Satellite in Poker FAQs

What is a Satellite in poker?

A satellite in poker is a tournament where the prizes are tickets to enter a larger, more expensive tournament.

How can I win a satellite tournament?

To win a satellite tournament, you typically need to finish in the top positions or position (depending on the payout structure and number of players).

The exact number of top positions that win a seat in the target tournament depends on the specific rules of the Satellite.

What is the benefit of playing in satellites?

The main benefit of playing in satellites is that they offer a way to gain entry into major poker tournaments without having to pay the full entry fee.

Is the strategy different for satellite tournaments?

Yes, the strategy for satellite tournaments is very different from regular tournaments. This is especially true early on and close to the money bubble. Since the goal is to win a seat in a larger tournament rather than cash, the play can often be more conservative with players aiming to survive rather than accumulate chips.

Where can I find satellite tournaments?

Many online poker sites and casinos offer satellite tournaments, especially in the lead up to major poker events.