Understanding Satellite Orbits

What is the primary reason satellites do not fall back to Earth after being launched?

• They are too far from Earth to be affected by gravity.

• They are held up by the atmosphere.

• They are in constant motion due to momentum.

• They are powered by solar energy.

How do satellites maintain their orbit around Earth?

• By using onboard thrusters to stay in place.

• By using solar sails to navigate.

• By balancing momentum with Earth's gravitational pull.

• By being tethered to the International Space Station.

Why do satellites closer to Earth need to travel at higher speeds?

• To avoid collisions with other satellites.

• To capture clearer images of Earth's surface.

• To counteract the stronger gravitational pull.

• To maintain communication with ground stations.

What is the approximate speed required for the NOAA-20 satellite to stay in orbit?

• 6,700 miles per hour

• 17,000 miles per hour

• 25,000 miles per hour

• 10,000 miles per hour

How long can satellites typically remain in orbit without falling back to Earth?

• Several years

• A few months

• Hundreds of years

• Indefinitely