Asynchronous Satellite Orbits

Asynchronous Orbits

Asynchronous Satellite Orbits are lower than geostationary orbits. Satellites in asynchronous orbit will pass overhead at different times of the day. Asynchronous Orbits are in different altitudes.


(80 to 1,200 miles )480 to 970 km - Asynchronous Orbits
Main type of satellite in these altitudes is Observation satellite. Observation satellites are used for tasks like photography. Observation satellites perform tasks such as:
  • Mapping
  • Ice and sand movement
  • Locating environmental situations
  • Locating mineral deposits
  • Finding crop problems
Search-and-rescue satellites are also works in these altitudes. Search-and-rescue satellites act as relay stations to rebroadcast emergency radio-beacon signals from a downed aircraft or ship in trouble.
The Space Shuttles and other man mission capsules are also operating in these altitudes.

3,000 to 6,000 miles(4,800 to 9,700 km). 
Some of the Science satellites are operating in altitudes of 3,000 to 6,000 miles (4,800 to 9,700 km). They send their research data to Earth via radio telemetry signals. Scientific satellite applications include:
  • Researching plants and animals
  • Earth science, such as monitoring volcanoes
  • Tracking wildlife
  • Astronomy, using the Infrared Astronomy Satellite  

6,000 to 12,000 miles - Asynchronous Orbits
Navigation satellites are operating at altitudes of 6,000 to 12,000 miles. Most popular navigation satellite is the satellite used for Global Positioning System (GPS). These satellites can determine the exact location of the GPS receiver. The GPS receiver may be located: 
  • In a ship at sea
  • In another spacecraft
  • In an airplane
  • In an automobile
  • In your pocket 





Navigation satellites