an object which orbits a planet; satellites can be natural (moons) or artificial

an orbit in which the satellite passes over the poles of a planet

an orbit in which the satellite is stationary in the sky as it orbits in the same time as the planet, directly above its equator

the path a satellite takes around the planet it orbits

Orbital motion of artificial satellites

Physics

In the Solar system and beyond unit, pupils learnt about the scale and content of the Solar system and the universe, and about gravitational force and the motions that cause days and seasons on the Earth.

This unit covers the solar system's features, including planets, moons, and satellites. It explains gravity's effect on orbits, the sun's formation from dust and gas, and fusion equilibrium. It also explores red-shift, evidence of an expanding universe, and the link to the Big Bang model.

Gravity in space

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

Titan is an artificial satellite of Saturn.

Titan is a planet in orbit around Saturn.

Titan is a large moon of Saturn. Which of the following statements most accurately describes Titan?

Which of the following types of satellites are often found in low Earth orbits?

it remains still as Earth spins beneath it

How does a geostationary satellite move around Earth?

so they remain above one point on Earth's surface

so they move across the whole of Earth each day

so they can send signals directly to every country on Earth

Why are communication satellites usually placed in a circular orbit of 35 785 km above the Equator?

What force acts on a satellite in geostationary orbit?

a communications satellite in a geostationary orbit

Starting with the satellite that has the fastest orbit, sort the following satellites of Earth into increasing order of how long they take to orbit Earth.

Earth spins on its axis so it faces the Sun once each day

Earth moves in a circular path around the Sun once each year

the Sun moves in a circular path around Earth once each day

the Sun moves in a circular path around Earth once each year

Which of the following objects orbit Earth?

Which of the following objects orbit only the Sun?

Starting with the planet with the fewest moons, sort the following planets into increasing order of number of moons.

How many artificial satellites orbit Earth?

Starting with the planet that takes the shortest amount of time, sort the following planets into increasing order of how long they take to orbit the Sun. 

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Adult supervision required

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Orbital motion of artificial satellites

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.