What is a key advantage of using communications satellites in low-earth orbit instead of geostationary orbit?

Using communications satellites in low-earth orbit (LEO) presents a key advantage in terms of less signal delay compared to satellites positioned in geostationary orbit. The primary reason for this is the significantly reduced distance between LEO satellites and the Earth’s surface. LEO satellites typically operate at altitudes ranging from about 160 kilometers to 2,000 kilometers, while geostationary satellites are approximately 35,786 kilometers above the equator.

The shorter distance translates to a quicker transmission time for signals traveling to and from the satellite. In practical terms, the signal delay for LEO satellites can be as low as a few milliseconds, whereas geostationary satellites experience a longer delay, often exceeding 500 milliseconds. This reduction in signal delay is particularly beneficial for applications requiring real-time communication, such as voice calls, online gaming, and video conferencing, where latency can significantly impact user experience.

Additionally, LEO satellites can form constellations to provide continuous coverage, which further enhances their effectiveness in communications. Overall, the lower signal delay from using LEO satellites contributes to improved performance in various communication applications.