Physics 2003 JAMB Past Questions - Question 13: A satellite is in a parking orbit if its period is

Correct Answer

C

Explanation

A satellite is said to be in a parking orbit when its period (the time it takes to complete one orbit around the Earth) is typically around 24 hours. This allows the satellite to appear stationary relative to a specific point on the Earth's surface, making it suitable for applications like communication satellites, weather satellites, and geostationary satellites.

For a satellite to have a 24-hour period and be in a geostationary orbit, it needs to be placed at an altitude of approximately 35,786 kilometers (about 22,236 miles) above the Earth's equator. At this altitude, the satellite's orbital period matches the Earth's rotation period, so it appears to hover over the same location on the Earth's surface.

This geostationary orbit is often referred to as a "parking orbit" for satellites serving these purposes because they stay in a fixed position relative to the Earth, making them ideal for continuous communication and monitoring of specific regions.