JSS 1: The Satellite

                         Satellite 

A satellite is an object that has been sent into space to collect information or to be part of a communications system.

They move in circular paths called orbits around a planet.

The moons that orbit the planets in the solar system are the natural satellites. The Earth has one natural satellite.

Satellites made by scientists are called Artificial satellites.

Examples of artificial satellites are:

1. Sputnik 1: launched by Russia in 1957 

2. Explorer 1: launched by USA in 1958 

3. Osumi: launched by Japan in 1970 

4. Prospero X-3: launched by the UK in 1971

5. SAT 1: launched by Nigeria in 2003

6. COMSAT-1: launched by Nigeria in 2007

           Types of Artificial satellites 

1. Communication satellites: Used for telecommunication

2. Weather satellites: Used for weather forecast

3. Observation(Surveillance) satellites: Used in map analysis and to observe some areas on Earth and other planets in the solar system

4. Reconnaissance satellite: Used for military observation to monitor troop movement and enemy camp 

                     Uses of satellites 

1. They are used in television and radio transmission 

2. For military or intelligence purposes 

3. For weather forecast 

4. For geographical studies 

5. To spy on other countries 

       Satellites moving around the earth