# Explain why a geostationary satellite always remains above the same point on the Earth's surface.

> AQA GCSE Physics (8463) — 4.8.1 Solar system; stability of orbital motions; satellites (Phys only) · Explain · 4 marks

> Communications satellites are placed in geostationary orbits above the equator. These satellites are used to relay television signals to homes across large areas of the Earth.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. A geostationary satellite has an orbital period of 24 hours
2. This matches the rotation period of the Earth
3. The satellite orbits in the same direction as the Earth's rotation
4. Because the satellite and the point on the surface move together / keep the same relative position, the satellite appears stationary from the ground

## Key terms

- [geostationary satellite](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/geostationary-satellite)

## Related

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-a-geostationary-satellite-always-3dd9d9ec) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.