Satellite Orbits and Visibility — Lesson 2

This lesson covers the concept of geostationary orbits of satellites, their definitions, and how they are defined in terms of sub-satellite points. It explains the terms 'nadir' and 'zenith' and how they relate to the satellite's position. The lesson also discusses the location of the Indian National Satellites (INSATs) in geostationary orbits. It further delves into the concept of geosynchronous orbits and highly elliptical orbits. The lesson also explains the terms 'azimuth' and 'elevation' and how they are used to determine the direction of the satellite. Lastly, it discusses the visibility of satellites from different points on Earth.

Video Highlights

00:18 - Introduction and recap of the previous lesson
03:42 - Assignments and solutions
07:18 - Different types of orbits
08:22 - Concept of 'azimuth' and 'elevation'
12:07 - Range and look angle with different diagrams
22:19 - Assignment and solution
24:24 - Azimuth angle calculation and visibility of a satellite from an earth station

Key Takeaways

- A geostationary orbit of a satellite moves in the same direction as the Earth revolves, with an orbital period of one sidereal day.
- The location of a satellite is defined in terms of sub-satellite points.
- The terms 'nadir' and 'zenith' are used to describe the direction from the satellite to the sub-satellite point and vice versa.
- The Indian National Satellites (INSATs) are placed in geostationary orbits.
- Geosynchronous orbits and highly elliptical orbits are used for different purposes, such as navigation satellites.
- The terms 'azimuth' and 'elevation' are used to determine the direction of the satellite.
- The visibility of satellites from different points on Earth can be calculated using the concepts of azimuth and elevation.