Glossary View

Term Low-Earth Orbit Satellite (LEO)
Definition

Low-Earth Orbit Satellite (LEO) is an orbit around Earth with an altitude of 2,000 km (1,200 mi) or less and with an orbital period of between about 84 and 127 minutes. (LEOs) are often deployed in satellite constellations, because the coverage area provided by a single LEO satellite only covers a small area that moves as the satellite travels at the high angular velocity needed to maintain its orbit. Many LEO satellites are needed to maintain continuous coverage over an area. This contrasts with geostationary satellites, where a single satellite, moving at the same angular velocity as the rotation of the Earth's surface, provides permanent coverage over a large area. 

See also: LEO