| Definition |
A geostationary orbit, often referred to as a geosynchronous equatorial orbit[1] (GEO), is a circular geosynchronous orbit 35,786 km (22,236 mi) above Earth's equator and following the direction of Earth's rotation. An object in such an orbit appears motionless, at a fixed position in the sky, to ground observers. Communications satellites and weather satellites are often placed in geostationary orbits, so that the satellite antennae (located on Earth) that communicate with them do not have to rotate to track them, but can be pointed permanently at the position in the sky where the satellites are located.
See also: Geostationary orbit.
Geostationary Orbit is a Telecommunications satellite or microwave concept used to transmit communications through radio links, earth stations, antennas, or orbiting spacecraft.
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| Context & Usage |
Satellite and microwave professionals use this concept when planning links, coverage, latency, earth-station equipment, and line-of-sight communications.
Related concepts include Telecommunications, Earth Station, Uplink and Downlink.
Additional Resource: NASA Space Communications and Navigation.
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