// ORBITAL LOGISTICS AND PROPULSION TERM

Geostationary

An orbit where a satellite appears to stay in the same spot in the sky relative to a fixed point on Earth's surface. This is achieved by orbiting directly above the equator at a specific altitude and speed.

Geostationary — illustration from Wikipedia
Image via Wikipedia

TECHNICAL DEFINITION

Geostationary orbit (GEO) is a specific geosynchronous orbit directly above the Earth's equator (approximately 35,786 km altitude) where a satellite's orbital period matches Earth's rotation, making it appear stationary from the ground.

BACKGROUND

The North Korean space program is the program of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, commonly known as North Korea, to develop its space capabilities.

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SYNONYMS & ALIASES

  • GEO
  • Geosynchronous equatorial orbit
  • Fixed-position orbit

USAGE NOTE

Geostationary satellites are vital for telecommunications, broadcasting, and weather monitoring, providing continuous coverage to specific regions.

DEVELOPERS

Organizations developing technology related to Geostationary.

  • SpaceX

    Develops and operates advanced rockets (Falcon 9, Falcon Heavy) capable of delivering payloads, including geostationary satellites, into orbit. They are a major provider of launch services for GEO missions.

  • Boeing Satellite Systems

    A leading manufacturer of geostationary communication satellites, providing advanced platforms for broadcasting, broadband, and national security applications.

  • Airbus Defence and Space

    Designs and manufactures a comprehensive range of geostationary satellites for telecommunications, Earth observation, and scientific missions, as well as providing related ground infrastructure.

  • Maxar Technologies

    Through its heritage Space Systems Loral (SSL) business, Maxar designs and builds geostationary communication satellites and robotic systems for various commercial and government customers.

  • Lockheed Martin Space

    Develops and manufactures a variety of advanced geostationary satellites for defense, civil, and commercial customers, including communication and meteorological platforms.

  • Eutelsat

    One of the world's leading satellite operators, managing a large fleet of geostationary satellites that provide video, data, and broadband services across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

  • Intelsat

    A global leader in satellite services, operating a large fleet of geostationary satellites that provide critical communication infrastructure for media, network services, and government solutions worldwide.

  • SES S.A.

    A global content connectivity provider, operating a powerful fleet of geostationary (GEO) and medium Earth orbit (MEO) satellites to deliver video and data services to customers worldwide.

  • Arianespace

    A leading European launch service provider, frequently launches a wide array of geostationary satellites for commercial and institutional customers using its Ariane 5 and Vega rockets.

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