| Type | Altitude | Orbital Period | Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Geostationary | 35,786 km | 24 hours (stays above same point) | TV, communications, weather |
| Low Earth Orbit (LEO) | 200-2000 km | ~90 minutes | ISS, imaging, Earth observation |
| Polar orbit | ~800 km | ~100 minutes | Mapping (covers whole Earth as it rotates) |
This key facts covers Types of Artificial Satellites within Orbits for GCSE Physics. Revise Orbits in Space Physics for GCSE Physics with 14 exam-style questions and 10 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 5 of 8 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Practice questions for Orbits
What is a protostar?
Explain why a main sequence star remains stable (in equilibrium) for billions of years.
Quick recall flashcards
What is Low Earth Orbit (LEO)?
Orbit at 200-2000 km altitude with ~90 minute orbital period. Used for ISS, imaging, and Earth observation
What is a polar orbit used for?
Mapping - the satellite orbits at ~800 km altitude covering the whole Earth as the planet rotates beneath it