Satellite

space · technology · orbit

Loops in orbit. A satellite is an object placed into orbit around a planet or other celestial body, circling it again and again instead of flying off into space.

Helps you navigate. GPS satellites work together to tell phones and cars exactly where they are on Earth, so you never get lost.

Weather watchers. Some satellites watch clouds and storms from above, helping forecasters predict if tomorrow will be sunny or rainy.

Beaming signals. Communication satellites relay TV, phone calls, and internet across huge distances, connecting people on opposite sides of the planet.

Space leftovers. Old, broken-down satellites and used rocket stages keep orbiting too, becoming what people call space junk.