While it's not especially good to go into details, anything that picks up a signal and triggers a response is potentially a detonator. Cell phones use satellites to convey signals so they are particularly desired for their range. This is known stuff for people who pursue it and won't get anyone further than they already are, so I can feel free in sharing it.
Don't feel ignorant. The fact that you don't pursue it is pretty darn comforting. : )
Your run of the mill cell phone network uses towers not satellites.