Question

Which of the following is/are correct about Geostationary Orbit (GEO)?

1. GEO satellites appear stationary from Earth.

2. They are located at an altitude of 35,863 km.

3. They offer excellent polar region coverage.

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

Answer 1

Answer:

A. 1 & 2

• Correct Answer: Option A) 1 & 2

• Geostationary orbits (GEO) are a special type of geosynchronous orbit with unique characteristics:

• GEO satellites appear stationary from Earth - This is correct. Satellites in geostationary orbit move at the same angular velocity as Earth's rotation, making them appear fixed at a specific point in the sky when viewed from Earth. This is why fixed satellite dishes can be pointed at a specific location and maintain connection without tracking.

• They are located at an altitude of 35,863 km - This is correct. Geostationary satellites orbit at an altitude of approximately 35,786-35,863 km above Earth's equator. This specific altitude enables them to maintain the same position relative to Earth's surface.

• They offer excellent polar region coverage - This is incorrect. GEO satellites are positioned above the equator and have poor coverage of polar regions. The curvature of the Earth limits their effectiveness at high latitudes (above approximately 70° north or south). For polar coverage, different orbits like Polar orbits or Highly Elliptical Orbits (HEO) are preferred.