Satellite constellation

A satellite constellation is a coordinated group of satellites whose orbits and operations work together to provide shared or continuous coverage.

Orbital plane: An orbital plane is the flat geometric surface containing a satellite's orbit around a central body. Constellation designers distribute satellites among orbital planes to spread coverage across Earth.
Satellite internet: Satellite internet provides internet access through communication links with orbiting satellites. Broadband systems use many satellites to extend service across regions beyond terrestrial networks.
Geostationary satellite: A geostationary satellite orbits above Earth's equator with a period matching Earth's rotation, appearing fixed over one longitude. A single geostationary spacecraft can watch one region continuously, unlike moving low-orbit members.
Space debris: Space debris consists of nonfunctional human-made objects in orbit around Earth. More spacecraft increase collision exposure and the need for disposal and tracking.
Orbital period: An orbital period is the time an object takes to complete one orbit around another body. Period governs how quickly satellites revisit locations and move between coverage regions.
Orbital inclination: Orbital inclination is the angle between an orbit's plane and a reference plane, usually Earth's equator. Inclination sets the latitudes a constellation can reach and how coverage shifts over time.
Global Positioning System: The Global Positioning System is a United States satellite navigation system that provides positioning and timing signals worldwide. Its medium-Earth-orbit constellation supplies continuous navigation coverage through overlapping satellite signals.
Low Earth orbit: Low Earth orbit is the region of space extending from Earth's surface to roughly 2,000 kilometers in altitude. Many constellations operate here, where low latency comes with rapid satellite motion.
Kessler syndrome: Kessler syndrome is a proposed cascade in which collisions generate debris that causes further collisions in orbit. Dense orbital populations make collision cascades a concern in constellation planning.
Satellite footprint: A satellite footprint is the region of Earth's surface within which a satellite can provide a specified service. Footprint size helps determine how many satellites must overlap to meet coverage goals.

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