Satellite

A satellite is an object that revolves around a planet or a star. It is a celestial body that is in orbit around a larger body. Satellites can be natural, such as moons, or artificial, such as man-made devices launched into orbit around the Earth or other planets.

Natural Satellites

Natural satellites, also known as moons, are celestial bodies that orbit planets. For example, Earth's natural satellite is the Moon, while Jupiter has over 79 known moons. These natural satellites are held in orbit by the gravitational pull of the planet they orbit.

Artificial Satellites

Artificial satellites are human-made objects placed into orbit around the Earth or other celestial bodies. They are used for various purposes, including communication, weather monitoring, navigation, scientific research, and military applications.

Types of Orbits

Satellites can follow different types of orbits, depending on their intended purpose. Some common types of orbits include:

• Low Earth Orbit (LEO): Satellites in LEO are relatively close to the Earth's surface and typically orbit at altitudes ranging from 160 to 2,000 kilometers. They are commonly used for Earth observation, communication, and scientific research.
• Geostationary Orbit (GEO): Satellites in GEO have an orbital period that matches the Earth's rotation, allowing them to appear stationary relative to a fixed point on the Earth's surface. They are commonly used for communication and weather monitoring.
• Polar Orbit: Satellites in polar orbit pass over the Earth's poles and are used for Earth observation, mapping, and environmental monitoring.

Study Guide

To better understand the concept of satellites, consider the following study guide questions:

1. What is a satellite? Provide examples of natural and artificial satellites.
2. Explain the role of gravitational pull in keeping natural satellites in orbit.
3. Describe the different types of orbits that artificial satellites can follow. Provide examples of the applications associated with each type of orbit.
4. Discuss the significance of satellites in communication, weather monitoring, navigation, and scientific research.
5. Research and present a case study on a specific satellite mission or program, highlighting its objectives, achievements, and impact on society.

By exploring these questions and topics, you can deepen your understanding of satellites and their importance in modern science and technology.