Topic Information

Satellites are used for a variety of purposes. Perhaps you have heard of the famous GPS satellites that can pinpoint your location and provide directions to get you to wherever you want to go. Satellites are also used for communication, television, weather tracking, and other services. If you have kids who love science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), this article is for you! To introduce your child to the fascinating world of satellites, here is an interactive article with the most important facts about these devices. Keep reading to find out more!

 

What is a Satellite?

A satellite is a man-made device that orbits the Earth. These devices move around the Earth in a few different ways. The first way is they are placed in orbit around the Earth. The second way is they are launched into space. Depending on the device, it can either travel through space or orbit around the Earth.

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Where are satellites located?

The majority of satellites are located in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Other satellites can be found in Geostationary Orbit (GEO) or in the Earth-Sun Lagrangian Point (ESL). The location of a satellite is important to its function. The LEO location provides an optimal balance between solar power and distance from Earth. This location allows satellites to transmit signals to the entire planet. GEO satellites are important for communications and for receiving information from all parts of the globe. ESL satellites are used for observations and for studying the sun.

 

Different Types of Satellites

Satellites can be grouped into two main categories: geostationary and low earth orbit (LEO) satellites. GEO satellites are located at a high altitude above the equator and orbit the Earth just once every 24 hours. The altitude of these satellites is approximately 36,000 kilometers (22,000 miles). GEO satellites are commonly used for communications and weather tracking. LEO satellites are located at a lower altitude above the equator and orbit the Earth at least once every 24 hours. The altitude of these satellites is approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles). LEO satellites are commonly used for navigation and sending images across the globe. LEO satellites are useful in emergency situations, such as natural disasters. They are often sent into space as a single unit and provide a low cost solution. This makes them perfect for space agencies that are looking to send satellites into orbit at a low cost.