-In the previous episode, we saw how to characterize a satellite's orbit.
In this episode, I will describe two typical orbits.
we cover a vast majority of communications systems.
The first is the geostationary orbit. It is the king of orbits.
This orbit is circular. Its plane is merged with the equatorial plane.
The satellite is at an altitude of about 36 000 kilometers.
satellites revolve at exactly the same speed as the Earth.
these satellites do not move and remain a fixed point in the sky.
it does not need to be moved anymore.
During week 1, I also mentioned the geosynchronous orbit.
that is to say not merged with the equatorial plane.
The second orbit category I will mention are the low orbits.
Most of the time they are circular.
Their altitude is between 350 and 800 kilometers.
that were introduced during week 1.
What is the benefit of low orbits?
We know that the smaller the distance, the easier it is to communicate.
Secondarily, it is also easier to observe.
Think about spy satellites, for example.
At these altitudes, they can take quite precise pictures.
since they do not revolve at the same speed as the Earth.
These satellites are thus sometimes called moving satellites.
The angle is also one of the important parameters for this kind of orbit.
It will have an impact on the service coverage.
We will see this during the next episodes.