← 8 September 2026's Current Affairs · Science & Tech GA Prelims ★★★☆☆ Mains ★★☆☆☆
ISRO explains its orbit choice for the EOS-05 earth observation satellite
Why in News?
ISRO explains its orbit choice for the EOS-05 earth observation satellite
ISRO explained that it placed EOS-05 in an inclined geosynchronous orbit rather than the equatorial geostationary orbit for wider ground coverage.
Why it matters: general awareness
What you need to know
2 min read
ISRO has explained why it placed the EOS-05 earth observation satellite in a geosynchronous orbit rather than a circular geostationary orbit.
A geosynchronous orbit matches Earth's rotational period but can be inclined to the equator, while a geostationary orbit is a special equatorial, zero-inclination case of it that keeps a satellite fixed over one point on Earth.
The inclined geosynchronous choice can offer wider ground coverage, including higher latitudes, useful for certain earth-observation and monitoring missions.
Sources: Topper IAS editorial (PIB / The Hindu / Indian Express)
Key facts
Remember these
- Geosynchronous orbit
- Geostationary orbit
- ISRO
- EOS-05
Prelims · Mains
How the exam will ask it
Prelims
- Geosynchronous orbit, Geostationary orbit, ISRO, EOS-05
Mains
Use as an example in GA answers (GS3 - Science & Technology: satellite orbits, ISRO missions).
Quick recall
Answer before you reveal
With reference to satellite orbits, consider the following statements:
- Every geosynchronous orbit is also a geostationary orbit.
- Every geostationary orbit is also a geosynchronous orbit.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Show answer
Answer: B — Statement 1 is incorrect - a geosynchronous orbit can be inclined and need not keep a satellite fixed over one point, unlike a geostationary orbit. Statement 2 is correct - a geostationary orbit is a special, equatorial, zero-inclination case of a geosynchronous orbit.
Convert this topic into marks
Today's 10-MCQ test · instant analysis · Powered by AdaptIQ