Satellites

Abstract

In this chapter satellites were defined. The commercial, military, political and economic importance of satellites was explained and documented. The number of satellites was quantified, and it was noted that the number of satellites is continuously increasing. The concept of a geosynchronous orbit was explained, and the saturation of this geosynchronous zone by too many satellites was documented. The fact that satellites regularly crash to Earth was exemplified. The need to manage and maximize the safety of satellite traffic in the public interest was emphasized.

Keywords: Apogee, Bay of Bengal, Center for Defense Information, ESA Gravity Field and Ocean Circulation Explorer, ESA Office of Space Debris, Falkland Islands, Geosynchronous zone, GPS, inclination, Information Age, International Civil Aviation Authority, Meteostats, perigee, Property Rights Convention, Registration Convention, Rockets, Missiles and Space Travel, ROSAT satellite, Sputnik I, telemedicine, The Capital Hill Club, The Teal Group.