How many types of satellite orbits are there?

With the development of The Times, the number of artificial satellites increases year by year. Each satellite has its own Specific satellite orbit, as long as the satellite gets this horizontal speed, it can fly around the earth without adding power, in order to prevent satellites from colliding in space, so the satellite orbit should be managed and divided.

The height classification

1.low earth orbit : Generally refers to the orbit below 2000 km from the ground. Satellites in this orbit have a short operation period and are usually used for meteorological observation, earth resource exploration, scientific experiments and technical tests.

2. Medium orbit: orbits with altitudes between 2,000 km and 20,000 km, including geosynchronous transfer orbit and intermediate orbit. These orbits are used for communications, navigation, and certain specific scientific experiments.

3. High orbit: refers to the orbit with a height of more than 20,000 kilometers from the ground, including geosynchronous orbit, geostationary orbit and Earth high elliptical orbit. These orbits are mainly used for communications, broadcasting, meteorological observation and earth observation.

Shape classification

1. Circular orbit: means that the speed of the satellite in orbit remains unchanged, and the orbit is perfectly circular. The stable motion of the satellite in this orbit facilitates long-term observation and scientific experiments.

2. Elliptic orbit: The shape of the orbit is elliptic, and the speed of the satellite in the orbit will change. Such orbits are suitable for specific tasks, such as gravity field measurements and the study of the shape of the Earth.

Inclination classification

1. Equatorial orbit: The satellite can conduct long-term stable observation near the equator.

2. Polar orbit: allows satellites to cover a global area, especially for global meteorological observation, earth resources survey and military reconnaissance missions.

3. Inclined orbit: the Angle can be adjusted as needed to achieve coverage and observation of specific areas.

Stability classification

1. Stable orbit: The satellite on this orbit operates statically and can maintain a pending position or attitude for a long time, which is suitable for tasks such as communications, broadcasting and meteorological observation.

2. Unstable orbit: Satellites in this orbit require constant orbital corrections or maneuvers to maintain their position or attitude, increasing the complexity and cost of the mission

Functional classification

1. Communication orbit: Mainly used for satellite communication missions, including geosynchronous orbit and geostationary orbit. These orbits allow satellites to provide continuous and stable communications services with global coverage.

2. Observation orbit: Used for earth observation, meteorological observation, scientific experiments and other missions. These satellites in orbit are able to obtain detailed information about the Earth’s surface, providing data support for scientific research, environmental monitoring and resource management.

3. Navigation orbit: Mainly used in satellite navigation systems, such as Global Positioning System (GPS), etc., the satellites on these orbits provide accurate navigation and positioning services, which are widely used in military, civil and commercial fields.

In summary, satellite orbits can be classified in a variety of ways based on altitude, shape, inclination, stability, and function. These classification methods help us better understand and apply the satellite orbit, and promote the development and application of space technology.