Analysis
Satellite and Debris by Perigee
The perigee of a satellite's orbit is its closest approach to Earth. This graph displays the distribution of satellites by their perigee altitude, offering insights into orbital patterns and mission types across the space industry.
Clustered Low Perigees
A significant number of satellites cluster at lower perigee altitudes, typically between 400-600 km. This concentration reflects the popularity of circular Low Earth Orbits (LEO) for Earth observation, communications, and technology demonstration missions. These altitudes provide a balance between coverage, orbital longevity, and ease of access.
Specialized Elliptical Orbits
Satellites with higher perigees often utilize elliptical orbits for specific purposes. For instance, Molniya orbits, with perigees around 1,000 km, are used for improved coverage of high latitudes. The varying perigee altitudes in the graph indicate the diverse range of mission requirements and orbital strategies employed in modern satellite operations.