What defines a satellite in a geostationary orbit?

What defines a satellite in a geostationary orbit?

• A. It orbits at a fixed point relative to the Earth's surface
• B. It travels in a low earth orbit
• C. It can communicate only with ground stations
• D. It has a variable orbit based on time

Answer: (A)

A satellite in a geostationary orbit is defined by its ability to maintain a fixed position relative to the Earth's surface. This is achieved by orbiting the Earth at a specific altitude of approximately 35,786 kilometers (22,236 miles) directly above the equator. In this orbit, the satellite matches the Earth's rotation period, which is approximately 24 hours. As a result, it appears to hover over a specific point on the equator, allowing for consistent communication with ground stations in that area. This unique characteristic makes geostationary satellites particularly useful for telecommunications, weather monitoring, and broadcasting, as they can provide stable and continuous service without the need for tracking antennas to follow their movement. Other types of orbits, such as low Earth orbit, do not maintain this fixed position and therefore require additional mechanisms to maintain communication.

A satellite in a geostationary orbit is defined by its ability to maintain a fixed position relative to the Earth's surface. This is achieved by orbiting the Earth at a specific altitude of approximately 35,786 kilometers (22,236 miles) directly above the equator. In this orbit, the satellite matches the Earth's rotation period, which is approximately 24 hours. As a result, it appears to hover over a specific point on the equator, allowing for consistent communication with ground stations in that area.

This unique characteristic makes geostationary satellites particularly useful for telecommunications, weather monitoring, and broadcasting, as they can provide stable and continuous service without the need for tracking antennas to follow their movement. Other types of orbits, such as low Earth orbit, do not maintain this fixed position and therefore require additional mechanisms to maintain communication.