What is a Geostationary Satellite

A geostationary satellite is any satellite which is placed in a geostationary orbit. Satellites in geostationary orbit maintain a constant position relative to the surface of the earth.

Geostationary satellites do this by orbiting the earth approximately 22,300 miles above the equator. This orbital path is called the Clarke Belt, in honor of Arthur C. Clarke.

In other words, if a satellite in a geostationary orbit is in a certain place above the earth, it will stay in that same spot above the earth. Its latitude stays at zero and its longitude remains constant.

In contrast to geostationary orbits, Medium Earth Orbit and Low Earth Orbit satellites constantly change their positions in relation to the surface of the earth.

A single geostationary satellite will provide coverage over about 40 percent of the planet.

Geostationary satellites are commonly used for communications and weather-observation.

The typical service life expectancy of a geostationary satellite is ten to fifteen years.

Because geostationary satellites circle the earth at the equator, they are not able to provide coverage at the Northernmost and Southernmost latitudes.

Geostationary orbits are often referred to as geosynchronous or just GEO.