Satellites orbit Earth in the thermosphere and exosphere, the outermost layers of our planet's atmosphere.
The thermosphere is characterized by extremely high temperatures due to the absorption of solar radiation. The exosphere is the outermost layer, where the atmosphere gradually fades into space.
While satellites are often associated with space, they technically reside within the Earth's atmosphere, albeit its outermost layers. This means they are not entirely free from atmospheric influence.
For example, satellites in low Earth orbit (LEO) are still affected by the thin atmosphere, which can cause drag and slow them down over time. This is why some satellites require periodic boosts to maintain their orbits.
Here's a breakdown of the layers where satellites orbit:
- Low Earth Orbit (LEO): Most satellites are in LEO, ranging from 160 to 2,000 kilometers above the Earth's surface. This includes the International Space Station (ISS) and many Earth observation satellites.
- Medium Earth Orbit (MEO): MEO satellites orbit at altitudes between 2,000 and 35,786 kilometers. Global Positioning System (GPS) satellites are a good example of MEO satellites.
- Geostationary Orbit (GEO): GEO satellites orbit at an altitude of 35,786 kilometers above the equator, moving at the same speed as the Earth's rotation. This allows them to remain stationary relative to a specific point on Earth. Weather satellites and communication satellites often occupy GEO.
Satellites are essential for various applications, including communication, navigation, weather forecasting, Earth observation, and scientific research. Their presence in the thermosphere and exosphere enables us to monitor and understand our planet and the universe better.
