Yet another newbie question

[Greybeard]

You can repeat the launch satellite order if you have satellites in your cargo area. With the planet highlighted, hit the launch satellite button. Then, hit the repeat orders button: it's the large red circular arrow. You can go the "eye" button to see the order string. After that, even if you don't have any satellites, the order will try to be followed. If you then construct satellites later, they will be launched in the next turn.

This will also work with mines. But, remember that you can't recover mines after they are launched.

Greybeard

[minipol]

as said here, the game setup has to be simultaneous. in turn based games this option isn't available, at least, i never see the repeat orders function light up

[Mylon]

Oh... Simultaneous. That expains it.