Space Regulatory Glossary Orbital Mechanics

apogee

/ˈæpədʒiː/ noun

1. The point in a satellite's orbit where it is farthest from Earth. In a geostationary transfer orbit, the apogee is at GEO altitude (35,786 km) while the perigee is at the initial parking orbit.
2. Apogee altitude determines the maximum extent of a satellite's orbital path and affects its orbital period. Satellite operators perform apogee kicks — engine burns at apogee — to circularize orbits or raise perigee altitude.

Related terms

perigee The point in a satellite's orbit where it is closest to Earth. For a circular orbit, perigee altitude equals apogee… GEO Geostationary orbit. A circular equatorial orbit at approximately 35,786 km altitude where a satellite's orbital period… TLE Two-Line Element set. A standardized data format for describing a satellite's orbital elements at a specific epoch,…

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