Types of Orbits
A geosynchronous orbit is a high Earth orbit that allows satellites to match Earth's rotation. Located at 22,236 miles (35,786 kilometers) above Earth's equator, this position is a valuable spot for monitoring weather, communications and surveillance.
A geosynchronous orbit is a high Earth orbit that allows satellites to match Earth's rotation. Located at 22,236 miles (35,786 kilometers) above Earth's equator, this position is a valuable spot for monitoring weather, communications and surveillance.
Scott Kelly/NASA. Since the last human mission to the moon, all of our explorations in space have focused on low Earth orbit. But what’s so special about LEO?
Earth orbits Polar orbits are often used for earth-mapping, earth observation, capturing the earth as time passes from one point, reconnaissance satellites, as well as for some weather satellites. The Iridium satellite constellation also uses a polar orbit to provide telecommunications services.
Pupil Worksheet. Satellites are usually classified according to the type of orbit they are in. There are four types of orbit associated with satellites, and the type of orbit dictates a satellite's use.
Pupil Worksheet. Satellites are usually classified according to the type of orbit they are in. There are four types of orbit associated with satellites, and the type of orbit dictates a satellite's use.
What's going to happen on December 21st 2012? (Intermediate) What color is each planet? (Intermediate) At what speed does the Earth move around the Sun?
A Sun-synchronous orbit (SSO, also called a heliosynchronous orbit) is a nearly polar orbit around a planet, in which the satellite passes over any given point of the planet's surface at the same local mean solar time.