Satellite Orbits and Launchers — Lesson 3

This lesson covers the intricate details of satellite orbits and launchers. It delves into the different types of orbits, their velocities, orbital heights, and time periods. The lesson also explains the concept of Geosynchronous and Geostationary orbits and how they are advantageous for countries near the equator. It further discusses the process of reaching these orbits using different types of launchers. The lesson also touches upon the calculation of orbital height and velocity in the circular orbit. It also explains the concept of orbit raising and the calculations involved in determining the incremental velocity required to place a satellite in Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) from the parking orbit. The lesson concludes with a discussion on the perturbations that can affect a satellite's orbit.

Video Highlights

00:18 - Introduction
02:20 - Basic planes of the orbit, Assignment and solution
04:52 - Transfer orbit, orbital height and velocity in the Circular orbit
06:25 - Process of orbit rising and the calculation of the incremental velocity required
08:48 - Discussion on rockets
10:47 - Multiple stages in a rocket to maximize the delta v
17:03 - Relation for orbit inclination
20:24 - Orbital perturbations
21:15 - Perturbation effect on the orbit due to non-uniform earth gravitational field, the effect of sun and moon, solar radiation pressure
26:24 - atmospheric drag

Key Takeaways

- Different types of orbits have varying velocities, orbital heights, and time periods.
- Geosynchronous and Geostationary orbits are advantageous for observers near the equator.
- The distance from the observer to the satellite is crucial for calculating signal delay.
- Satellites reach their orbits using different types of launchers.
- The orbital plane of a satellite is related to the equatorial plane.
- Non-uniform earth gravitational field, sun and moon, solar radiation pressure, and atmospheric drag can affect a satellite's orbit.