Classification of Satellite Orbits

Geostationary orbit (GEO)
Medium earth orbit (MEO)
Low earth orbit (LEO)


GEO Orbit:

* No problem with frequency changes.
* Tracking of the satellite is simplified.
* High coverage area.
* Disadvantages of the GEO orbit.
* Weak signal after traveling over 35,000 km.
* Polar regions are poorly served.
* Signal sending delay is substantial.


MEO Orbit:

* Circular orbit at an altitude in the range of 5000 to 12,000 km.
* Orbit period of 6 hours.
* Diameter of coverage is 10,000 to 15,000 km.
* Round trip signal propagation delay less than 50 ms.
* Maximum satellite visible time is a few hours.


LEO Orbit:

* Circular/slightly elliptical orbit under 2000 km.
* Orbit period ranges from 1.5 to 2 hours.
* Diameter of coverage is about 8000 km.
* Round-trip signal propagation delay less than 20 ms.
* Maximum satellite visible time up to 20 min.