Question

Consider the following:

1. The orbital velocity in GEO is about 3075 m/s.

2. The GEO satellites rotate in inclined orbit planes.

3. GEO satellites always move relative to Earth.

Which statements are correct?

• A. 1 only
• B. 1 & 2 only
• C. 2 & 3 only
• D. All are correct

Answer 1

Answer:

A. 1 only

• Correct Answer: Option A - 1 only

• The orbital velocity in GEO is about 3075 m/s - This statement is correct. Satellites in geostationary orbit have an orbital velocity of approximately 3075 m/s (11,070 km/h), which allows them to match Earth's rotational period of 24 hours.

• The GEO satellites rotate in inclined orbit planes - This statement is incorrect. By definition, GEO satellites orbit in the equatorial plane (0° inclination), not in inclined orbits. Inclined orbits would cause the satellite to appear to move north and south relative to a fixed point on Earth, which would defeat the purpose of a geostationary orbit.

• GEO satellites always move relative to Earth - This statement is incorrect. The defining characteristic of GEO satellites is that they appear stationary relative to a fixed point on Earth's surface. This is achieved by placing the satellite at an altitude of approximately 35,786 km above the equator, where its orbital period exactly matches Earth's rotational period, causing it to remain fixed over one location.