This refers to a department of a company that has a separate location from the headquarters. There can be several reasons for a corporation to open a satellite operation which include reaching an underdeveloped area and improving the quality of life for employees.
Additional meaning of Satellite Operation:
Often, businesses will use a satellite operation as a way to keep costs such as rent, down. Examples of a satellite operations include a medical practice with a clinic in an impoverished neighborhood or Department of Motor vehicle offices dedicated to only driver’s license renewals.