# Rocket Launch (1 Viewer)

#### Khan.Paki

##### Member
Can anyone please guide me with this question;

Analyse the factors that rocket scientists must take into consideration when launching a satellite into a geostationary orbit. [7M]

Thanks

#### rand_althor

##### Active Member
Things they would have to consider:
• Achieving the correct altitude and orbital velocity required for a geostationary orbit
• Ensuring the satellite is placed above the equator
• Ensuring the rocket is launched from east to west so that it orbits in the same direction as Earth
• Make sure the rocket has enough fuel to orbit

#### Khan.Paki

##### Member
Can you please explain why correct altitude and orbital velocity is required?

#### astroman

##### Well-Known Member
Can you please explain why correct altitude and orbital velocity is required?
so they can stay above same spot on earth

#### rand_althor

##### Active Member
There is a specific radius required for a geostationary orbit. You can find this using Kepler's 3rd Law $\frac{r^3}{T^2}=\frac{GM}{4\pi^2}$, by letting T equal 24 hours (convert to seconds). There is also a specific velocity required to attain this specific radius. You can calculate this using the formula for orbital velocity $v_o=\sqrt{\frac{GM}{r}}$. As astroman said, given they are moving at the correct velocity and have the correct orbital period, the satellite will be seen as stationary relative to observers on Earth.

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