What orbit do most navy-utilized communications satellites occupy?

• A. GEO
• B. LEO
• C. MEO
• D. HEO

Answer: (A)

Geostationary orbit provides a fixed view of a large portion of the Earth, so a satellite appears to hover over the same point on the equator as the planet rotates. For navy communications, that means ships can maintain a stable, continuous link with a single satellite using a fixed antenna, without constantly tracking or switching between satellites. The altitude—about 35,786 km—gives a wide footprint, enabling broad ocean-area coverage ideal for fleet communications, command and control, and data transmission over long distances with relatively simple ground equipment.

Low Earth orbits move quickly across the sky, requiring tracking and frequent handoffs between satellites, which is less practical for stable, wide-area naval communications. Medium Earth Orbit and High Earth Orbit have their own uses but don’t provide the same continuous, broad coverage from a single satellite that geostationary orbit offers for routine navy communications.