What is a geostationary orbit?
Quick Answer
A geostationary orbit is an orbit about 35,786 kilometers above Earth’s equator where a satellite appears fixed over one point on the ground. It is ideal for communications and weather satellites.
The Full Story
A geostationary orbit matches Earth’s rotation, so a satellite in this orbit circles the planet once every 24 hours and stays above the same longitude. Because it appears stationary in the sky, ground antennas can point at it continuously. This orbit lies about 35,786 kilometers above the equator. Many communications, television, and weather satellites use geostationary orbit because it gives constant coverage of a large region.
Key Facts
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"The orbit that makes satellites hover over Earth"
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