ARRL Technician Practice Exam

What do the initials LEO signify regarding an amateur satellite?

1. The satellite is located in High Earth Orbit

2. The satellite is in a Low Earth Orbit

3. The satellite is designed for long-range communications

4. The satellite operates in all frequency bands

The correct answer is: The satellite is in a Low Earth Orbit

The initials LEO stand for Low Earth Orbit, which indicates that the satellite is positioned relatively close to the Earth's surface, typically at altitudes ranging from about 100 to 1,200 miles. This designation is significant in the context of amateur satellites because satellites in LEO can achieve lower latency and generally have shorter communication distances compared to those in higher orbits. Low Earth Orbit satellites are particularly useful for amateur radio communications as they can provide faster and more reliable connections. The characteristics of LEO make it easier to establish communication links for various amateur radio activities, including satellite tracking and utilization for testing equipment or connecting with other amateurs. Understanding the concept of LEO helps differentiate it from other classifications, such as Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) or Geostationary Orbit (GEO), which have different applications and operational challenges. For example, satellites in MEO might be used for navigation, while those in GEO remain fixed relative to an observer on the ground, which can complicate communication for amateur applications.