Space Regulatory Glossary Orbital Mechanics
GEO
- Geostationary orbit. A circular equatorial orbit at approximately 35,786 km altitude where a satellite's orbital period matches Earth's rotation, causing the satellite to appear stationary relative to the ground.
- GEO slots are a limited and highly regulated resource coordinated through the ITU, with significant commercial value for telecommunications and broadcasting.
Mentioned in The Downlink
- FCC Satellite Licensing: From Application to Authorization
Guide to FCC Part 25 satellite licensing: application process, processing rounds, milestones, bonds, filing types, market access, and Part 100.
- How Satellite Licensing Works: A Complete Guide
FCC, FAA, NOAA, and ITU filing processes, costs, timelines, and common mistakes. A plain-language guide to U.S. satellite licensing.
- The FCC 5-Year Deorbit Rule Explained
The FCC cut satellite disposal timelines from 25 years to 5. Who it applies to, how operators comply, and what happens if they don't.