What is the orbital altitude of GPS satellites in kilometers?

What is the orbital altitude of GPS satellites in kilometers?

• A. 20200
• B. 12200
• C. 20000
• D. 20250

Answer: (A)

GPS satellites are placed in a medium Earth orbit about 20,200 kilometers above the Earth’s surface. That specific altitude is chosen because it produces a 12-hour orbital period and a favorable geometry for global coverage, giving receivers a reliable four-satellite geometry for accurate positioning. On exams, the standard cited altitude is about 20,200 kilometers, which is why this figure is selected. The other numbers don’t match the well-established GPS altitude and would change the orbit’s period and coverage characteristics.

GPS satellites are placed in a medium Earth orbit about 20,200 kilometers above the Earth’s surface. That specific altitude is chosen because it produces a 12-hour orbital period and a favorable geometry for global coverage, giving receivers a reliable four-satellite geometry for accurate positioning. On exams, the standard cited altitude is about 20,200 kilometers, which is why this figure is selected. The other numbers don’t match the well-established GPS altitude and would change the orbit’s period and coverage characteristics.