Deep Dive: E2A10
The correct answer is B: Geostationary. What type of satellite appears to stay in one position in the sky is geostationary. Geostationary satellites orbit at the same rate as Earth's rotation, so they appear stationary. For amateur radio operators, this is important for satellite operation. Understanding this helps when tracking satellites.
Why Other Answers Are Wrong
Option A (HEO): Incorrect. HEO (Highly Elliptical Orbit) satellites don't appear stationary - they move across the sky. HEO isn't stationary. Option C (Geomagnetic): Incorrect. Geomagnetic isn't a satellite orbit type - geostationary is the orbit type. Geomagnetic isn't correct. Option D (LEO): Incorrect. LEO (Low Earth Orbit) satellites don't appear stationary - they move quickly across the sky. LEO isn't stationary.
Exam Tip
Satellite that appears stationary = geostationary. Think 'G'eostationary = 'G'round appears 'S'tationary. Geostationary satellites orbit at same rate as Earth's rotation, so they appear stationary. Not HEO, not geomagnetic, not LEO - just geostationary.
Memory Aid
Satellite that appears stationary = geostationary. Think 'G'eostationary = 'S'tationary. Geostationary satellites orbit at same rate as Earth's rotation, so they appear stationary. Important for satellite operation.
Real-World Example
A geostationary satellite: It orbits at approximately 22,236 miles (35,786 km) above the equator, at the same rate as Earth's rotation. From the ground, it appears to stay in one position in the sky - you point your antenna at it and it stays there. This is what geostationary means - appears stationary.
Source & Coverage
Question Pool: 2024-2028 Question Pool
Subelement: E2A
Reference: 2024-2028 Question Pool · E2 - Operating Procedures
Key Concepts
Verified Content
Question from the official FCC Extra Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the E2A topic.