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Satellite Orbits Report

The document outlines the definitions, characteristics, applications, and advantages/disadvantages of three satellite orbit types: GEO, MEO, and LEO. GEO satellites are stationary and ideal for broadcasting, MEO satellites are used for navigation like GPS, and LEO satellites provide low-latency communications and Earth observations. Each orbit type serves distinct purposes based on altitude and coverage, influencing satellite design and deployment.

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18 views3 pages

Satellite Orbits Report

The document outlines the definitions, characteristics, applications, and advantages/disadvantages of three satellite orbit types: GEO, MEO, and LEO. GEO satellites are stationary and ideal for broadcasting, MEO satellites are used for navigation like GPS, and LEO satellites provide low-latency communications and Earth observations. Each orbit type serves distinct purposes based on altitude and coverage, influencing satellite design and deployment.

Uploaded by

asadeeqkhan131
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Satellite Orbits: GEO, MEO, and LEO

1. Definition and Characteristics

a) Definitions:
• GEO (Geostationary Earth Orbit): GEO satellites orbit the Earth at an altitude where
their orbital period matches Earth's rotation period. They appear stationary over a fixed
position on the equator.
• MEO (Medium Earth Orbit): MEO satellites orbit the Earth at altitudes between LEO
and GEO. They do not remain fixed over one point and are typically used for navigation
and communications.
• LEO (Low Earth Orbit): LEO satellites orbit close to Earth, generally below 2,000 km
altitude. They travel quickly around the planet and provide high-resolution observations
and low-latency communications.

b) Typical Altitude Ranges:


• LEO: 160 km to 2,000 km
• MEO: 2,000 km to 35,786 km
• GEO: Exactly 35,786 km above Earth's equator

c) Orbital Period:
• LEO: Approximately 90–120 minutes per orbit
• MEO: Between 2 to 12 hours, depending on altitude
• GEO: 24 hours (synchronous with Earth’s rotation)

2. Applications and Uses

a) Real-world Applications:
Orbit Type Applications
LEO 1. Earth observation and remote sensing
2. Low-latency satellite internet (e.g.,
Starlink)
MEO 1. GPS and global navigation systems
2. Some communication satellites
GEO 1. Television broadcasting
2. Weather monitoring and forecasting

b) Examples of Satellites and Functions:


• LEO:
- Starlink (SpaceX): Delivers high-speed internet services with low latency.
- Landsat series: Captures Earth imagery for environmental monitoring.

• MEO:
- GPS (USA), Galileo (EU), GLONASS (Russia): Provide global navigation and timing
services.
- O3b (SES Networks): Delivers broadband internet to underserved regions.

• GEO:
- GOES (Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites): Monitor weather and
atmospheric conditions.
- INSAT (India): Supports telecommunications, meteorology, and search/rescue
operations.

3. Advantages and Disadvantages

a) Comparison Table:
Feature LEO MEO GEO
Altitude 160–2,000 km 2,000–35,786 km 35,786 km
Orbital Period 90–120 minutes 2–12 hours 24 hours
Latency Very low Moderate High
Coverage Area Small Larger than LEO Large (1 satellite
covers 1/3 Earth)
Antenna Tracking antennas Tracking needed Fixed antenna can
Requirements needed be used
Cost of Launch Lower Moderate Higher
Signal Delay Minimal Moderate Noticeable
Common Uses Earth imaging, GPS, TV, weather, fixed
satellite internet communication communication
Advantages Low latency, Wide coverage, Continuous
detailed imaging ideal for navigation coverage, fixed
position
Disadvantages Short lifespan, Complex High latency,
more satellites handovers, higher expensive to deploy
cost

Conclusion:
Each orbit type—LEO, MEO, and GEO—serves a unique purpose based on its altitude,
coverage, and orbital characteristics. LEO satellites are optimal for fast communication
and high-resolution imagery, making them ideal for Earth observation and internet
services. MEO satellites strike a balance between altitude and coverage, supporting
critical navigation systems like GPS. GEO satellites, with their fixed position relative to
Earth, provide uninterrupted service for broadcasting and meteorology. Understanding
these orbits is crucial for satellite design and deployment to maximize efficiency and
functionality.

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