UPSC Mains Answer Practice — GS 3: Excess liquidity in banking system and different satellite orbits (Week 171)

Answer:

Satellite orbits play a crucial role in determining the capabilities of communication and observation satellites. The three primary types of orbits discussed are Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) and Geosynchronous Orbit (GSO). Each offers distinct trade-offs between coverage, resolution, latency and energy requirements.

Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites orbit relatively close to Earth, typically at altitudes below 2,000 kilometers. This proximity offers several advantages. Firstly, it provides high-resolution imagery and data due to the short distance between the satellite and the ground. Secondly, LEO satellites have low latency, as the signals travel a shorter distance between the satellite and the receiver.

However, the coverage area is limited, as each satellite can only cover a small portion of the Earth's surface at any given time. Moreover, the proximity to Earth means that LEO satellites require more energy to maintain their orbits, resulting in higher operational costs. Additionally, the low altitude results in a shorter lifespan for LEO satellites due to increased atmospheric drag.

Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) satellites occupy a middle ground between LEO and GSO. These satellites orbit at altitudes ranging from approximately 2,000 to 35,786 kilometers. MEO satellites offer a balance of coverage and energy requirements. They can cover larger areas than LEO satellites while still maintaining reasonable latency levels.

The energy requirements are lower than LEO satellites, resulting in more cost-effective operations. However, resolution in MEO satellites is generally lower than LEO satellites, as the distance to the ground is greater.

Geosynchronous Orbit (GSO), also known as geostationary orbit, is located at an altitude of approximately 35,786 kilometers above the equator. In this orbit, the satellite appears to remain stationary relative to a fixed point on Earth. GSO offers excellent global coverage, as a single satellite can provide continuous coverage over a specific region.

The high altitude also results in lower resolution compared to LEO satellites, as the ground coverage area is larger. However, GSO satellites benefit from lower energy requirements for maintaining their orbits, as they are farther from Earth. Despite the fixed position, GSO satellites still experience some latency due to the distance between the satellite and the ground receiver.

In conclusion, each type of satellite orbit presents unique advantages and challenges. LEO satellites excel in resolution and low latency, MEO satellites offer a balance of coverage and energy efficiency, while GSO satellites provide global coverage with lower energy requirements. Understanding these trade-offs is essential for selecting the appropriate satellite orbit for specific applications and requirements.