satelliiditaso

Satelliiditaso, also known as satellite altitude or orbital altitude, refers to the vertical distance between a satellite and the Earth’s surface or the center of the Earth, depending on the reference frame used. This measurement is critical in satellite operations, as it directly influences orbital mechanics, communication range, and the satellite’s field of view. Altitude is typically expressed in kilometers or miles and can be categorized into low, medium, and high orbits, each serving distinct purposes.

Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites operate at altitudes ranging from approximately 160 to 2,000 kilometers above the Earth’s surface. These orbits are commonly used for Earth observation, weather monitoring, and some communication applications due to their proximity to the planet, which allows for high-resolution data collection and relatively low signal latency. However, satellites in LEO require frequent adjustments to maintain their position due to atmospheric drag.

Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellites generally reside between 2,000 and 35,786 kilometers above the Earth’s surface. This range is often utilized for global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), such as GPS, as it provides a balance between coverage and signal stability. MEO satellites experience less atmospheric drag than LEO counterparts but still require periodic corrections.

Geostationary orbit (GEO) satellites are positioned at an altitude of approximately 35,786 kilometers above the Earth’s equator. At this altitude, their orbital period matches Earth’s rotation, allowing them to remain fixed over a specific point on the planet’s surface. GEO satellites are essential for telecommunications, broadcasting, and weather monitoring due to their continuous coverage of a designated region.

The altitude of a satellite is determined by its intended function, launch capabilities, and the need for coverage area. Advances in technology have enabled satellites to operate at increasingly precise altitudes, optimizing performance for various applications while minimizing operational challenges.