gs1medium
Satellites used for telecommunication relay are kept in a geostationary orbit. A satellite is said to be in such an orbit when:
- 1.The orbit is geosynchronous.
- 2.The orbit is circular.
- 3.The orbit lies in the plane of the Earth's equator.
- 4.The orbit is at an altitude of 22,236 km. Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
- A.1, 2 and 3 only
- B.1, 3 and 4 only
- C.2 and 4 Only
- D.1, 2, 3 and 4
▶ Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: A. 1, 2 and 3 only
A geostationary orbit is a type of geosynchronous orbit, meaning its orbital period matches Earth's rotation. For a geostationary orbit, it must be circular, lie above the Earth's equator, and maintain a constant altitude of approximately 35,786 kilometers (22,236 miles). These characteristics allow the satellite to appear stationary relative to a fixed point on the Earth's surface, which is crucial for telecommunication relays.
Source: UPSC gs1 2011