Explore the question in detail with explanation, related questions, and community discussions.
The correct answer is 24 hours. A geostationary satellite is a type of satellite that appears to remain fixed at a single position relative to the Earth’s surface. This unique behavior is possible because its orbital period matches the rotation period of the Earth, which is 24 hours.
Geostationary satellites orbit the Earth at a high altitude of approximately 35,786 kilometers (22,236 miles) above the equator. At this altitude, the satellite’s orbital velocity allows it to rotate in sync with the Earth’s rotation. This means the satellite completes one full revolution in the same time the Earth completes one rotation, which is exactly 24 hours.
This property makes geostationary satellites extremely useful for communication, weather monitoring, and broadcasting services. Since the satellite remains stationary relative to a point on Earth, ground-based antennas do not need to track its motion, simplifying the setup for TV, radio, and internet transmission.
Other options are incorrect:
365 days = orbital period of the Earth around the Sun, not satellites.
30 days ≈ the Moon’s orbital period around the Earth.
Changing continuously does not apply because a geostationary satellite has a fixed orbit and period by definition.
Geostationary orbits are also called Clarke orbits, named after Arthur C. Clarke, who first proposed their use for global communications. These satellites are positioned directly above the equator; if placed elsewhere, they would not maintain a fixed position relative to the Earth.
Geostationary satellite = fixed relative to Earth’s surface.
Orbital period = 24 hours, same as Earth’s rotation.
Altitude = 35,786 km above the equator.
Used for communication, weather, and broadcasting.
Other periods (30 days, 365 days) are for Moon and Earth orbits.
👉 Final Answer: The period of revolution of a geostationary satellite is 24 hours.
Discussion
Leave a Comment