Could you elaborate on the concept of orbit and its relationship with Earth? Specifically, how does one measure the distance from Earth to an object orbiting around it? Are there any factors that affect the distance of an orbit, and if so, what are they? Furthermore, is there a standard unit of measurement commonly used in determining the distance of an orbit from Earth?
6 answers
KimchiQueenCharm
Mon Sep 09 2024
The majority of general observation satellites are positioned in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), a region that lies approximately 100 to 200 miles above the Earth's surface.
CryptoProphet
Mon Sep 09 2024
This altitude choice is strategic, as it allows for efficient data transmission and rapid revisits over specific areas of interest.
TeaCeremony
Mon Sep 09 2024
Despite being relatively close to the planet, LEO satellites still maintain a substantial distance from Earth's center, ranging from approximately 4100 to 4200 miles.
CryptoNinja
Sun Sep 08 2024
This vast distance ensures that satellites operate within a stable environment, free from the disruptive effects of Earth's atmosphere.
Valentino
Sun Sep 08 2024
Moreover, LEO's proximity to Earth allows for better image resolution and reduced latency in data transmission, making it ideal for various observation tasks.