HOPKINS GLOSSARY OF WEATHER TERMS G

geosynchronous satellite (also known as geostationary satellite)

• An artificial satellite that revolves around the earth at the same speed and direction as the earth's diurnal rotation, thereby maintaining a synchronous position with points on earth; these satellites orbit approximately 35,790 km (22,240 mi) above the sub-satellite point on the equator. From such an orbit, approximately one third of the earth can be effectively imaged. Contrast with polar orbiting satellite.