Evaluate the following statements and select the option that is accurate:
Statement 1: Sun-synchronous orbits allow satellites to maintain consistent local solar time over a specific region.
Statement 2: This orbital feature is ideal for continuous solar-powered communication satellites in geostationary orbit.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
The correct answer is option 1 i.e. Only Statement 1 is correct.
Only Statement 1 is correct. Sun-synchronous orbits are near-polar orbits designed for satellites to pass over any given point on Earth at the same local solar time, ensuring consistent lighting for imaging. Statement 2 is incorrect; communication satellites utilize geostationary orbits, not Sun-synchronous orbits.
- Statement 1: Correct. This orbital type is used for environmental monitoring and surveillance.
- Statement 2: Incorrect. Sun-synchronous orbits are usually low Earth orbits (LEO), not geostationary. Geostationary satellites must be directly over the equator, whereas Sun-synchronous orbits are near-polar.