LEOsatelliitista

LEOsatelliitista, or Low Earth Orbit satellite, refers to any artificial satellite orbiting Earth at an altitude between 160 kilometers and 2,000 kilometers above sea level. This orbital region is characterized by its relatively close proximity to Earth, which offers distinct advantages and disadvantages for satellite operations. Satellites in LEO experience atmospheric drag, requiring periodic reboosting to maintain their altitude, but this proximity also allows for lower latency in communication and higher resolution imaging.

LEO is a popular orbital band for a wide range of satellite applications. These include Earth observation satellites used for remote sensing, weather monitoring, and environmental studies. Communication satellites, particularly those forming large constellations for internet services, also frequently operate in LEO due to the reduced signal travel time. Furthermore, many scientific research satellites, including those studying space weather or conducting astronomical observations, utilize LEO to minimize interference from Earth's magnetic field and atmosphere.

The relatively low altitude of LEO means that satellites travel at high speeds, completing an orbit around Earth in approximately 90 to 120 minutes. This rapid movement necessitates sophisticated tracking and communication systems, especially for constellations where seamless handover between satellites is crucial. The increasing deployment of satellites in LEO has also raised concerns about space debris and orbital congestion, prompting efforts towards sustainable space operations and debris mitigation strategies.