Satellite orbit

QuestionEdit

Is it right to say that a geostationary satellite is travelling with the same speed as that of the Earth? The satellite has a longer distance to travel when compared to the Earth's circumference and so I think that the satellite must have a larger speed.

AnswerEdit

Hi Anita, There are always two speeds! You are referring to the linear one (tangential velocity amplitude given by V = r times angular velocity). People refer to the angular velocity in radians / sec. In case of the geostationary satellite, it is this velocity that matches that of earth, making the satellite appear to be stationary above a particular point above the earth.

regards Jayen