Types of satellites

Prograde Orbit:

 

This orbit is with an inclination of less than 90°. Its direction is the same as the direction as the rotation of the primary (planet).

 

Retrograde Orbit:

 

This orbit is with an inclination of more than 90°. Its direction is counter to the direction of rotation of the planet. Only few satellites are launched into retrograde orbit because the quantity of fuel required to launch them is much greater than for a prograde orbit.

 

Polar Orbits:

 

This orbit passes above or nearly above both poles (north and south pole) of the planet on each of its revolutions. Therefore it has an inclination of (or very close to) 90 degrees. These orbits are highly inclined in shape.

 

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Satellite communication by mrs. r.selvapriya