satelle

Satelle is a small, rocky body that orbits a larger body, such as a planet or a star. The term is often used interchangeably with the word "moon," which is a natural satellite that orbits a planet. However, the term "satellite" can also refer to artificial objects, like spacecraft, that are placed in orbit around a planet or other celestial body.

In the context of planetary science, satellites can be classified into several categories based on their characteristics and origins. Regular satellites are those that orbit in the same direction as their planet's rotation and have prograde orbits. Irregular satellites, on the other hand, have retrograde orbits, meaning they orbit in the opposite direction to their planet's rotation. Some satellites are also classified as natural or artificial, depending on whether they are formed naturally or created by human intervention.

Satellites play a crucial role in various scientific studies, including the understanding of planetary formation, dynamics, and evolution. They also provide valuable data for astronomical research and can be used for practical applications, such as navigation and communication systems. In recent years, the exploration of satellites has gained significant attention, with numerous missions dedicated to studying these celestial bodies and their interactions with their host planets.