A communications satellite orbital period is the time it takes for a satellite to complete one orbit around the Earth.
The orbital period is important because it determines how long the satellite will be visible from a specific location on Earth, as well as how often it will pass over that location. This impacts the reliability and effectiveness of communication services provided by the satellite.
The orbital period is calculated using Kepler's Third Law of Planetary Motion, which states that the square of the orbital period is proportional to the cube of the satellite's average distance from the Earth.
Yes, the orbital period of a satellite can be changed by adjusting its altitude or speed. This is often done to maintain the optimal orbit for communication purposes or to avoid collisions with other satellites or space debris.
The typical orbital period for a communications satellite is around 90-120 minutes, depending on its altitude and purpose. However, some satellites may have longer or shorter orbital periods depending on their specific orbit and mission requirements.