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Difference between Geostationary and Geosynchronous Satellites
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- Low Earth Orbit (LEO)
- LEO characteristics
- Applications for LEO satellites
| Difference between Geostationary and Geosynchronous Satellites
In geostationary, the orbit is circular and in equatorial plane thus the inclination is zero. So there is only one geostationary orbit. Also, the angular velocities of these satellites are equal to angular velocity of the earth and hence these appear to be stationary with respect to earth all the time. On the other hand, in geosynchronous satellites, the orbit is neither circular nor equatorial and hence is inclined. It also has angular velocity equals to earths and period of revolution equals to rotation of earth as geostationary satellites. But there are many geosynchronous orbits unlike only one geostationary orbit. Low Earth Orbit (LEO) With Low Earth Orbit extending from 200 km to 1200 km, it means that it is relatively low in altitude, although well above anything that a conventional aircraft can reach. However, LEO is still very close to the Earth, especially when compared to other forms of satellite orbit including geostationary orbit. LEO characteristics Orbit times are much less than for many other forms of orbit. Less energy is expended placing the satellites in LEO than higher orbits. The lower orbit means the satellite and user are closer together and therefore path losses less than for other orbits such as GEO. LEO satellites have shorter life spans than others Some speed reduction may be experienced as a result of friction from the low, but measurable levels of gasses, especially at lower altitudes. Radiation levels are lower than experienced at higher altitudes. Applications for LEO satellites A variety of different types of satellites use the LEO orbit levels. These include different types and applications including: Communications satellites – some communications satellites including the Iridium phone system using LEO. Earth monitoring satellites use LEO as they are able to see the surface of the Earth more clearly as they are not so far away. They are also able to traverse the surface of the Earth. The International Space Station is in an LEO that varies between 320 km (199 miles) and 400 km (249 miles) above the Earth’s surface. Download 2.63 Mb. Share with your friends:
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