Space Regulatory Glossary Orbital Mechanics
LEO
- Low Earth orbit. An orbit around Earth at altitudes between approximately 160 km and 2,000 km.
- The most congested orbital regime and the location of the majority of commercial satellite constellations, the International Space Station, and most orbital debris.
Mentioned in The Downlink
- ITAR and Export Controls for Satellite Programs
How U.S. export controls apply to commercial satellites. ITAR vs EAR jurisdiction, deemed exports, the 2024 reform proposal, and compliance strategies.
- U.S. Space Regulatory Compliance: A Complete Guide
Navigate FCC, FAA, NOAA, and ITU requirements for commercial space missions. Four agencies, timelines, costs, and compliance steps.
- 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.