Space Travel and Satellite Technology
Space travel is seriously tough - astronauts face deadly radiation, extreme temperature swings from scorching hot to freezing cold, and the constant threat of micrometeorites smashing into their spacecraft. Getting there requires massive amounts of fuel and energy, making every mission incredibly expensive with the real possibility of being a one-way trip.
Satellites are basically objects that orbit planets, held in place by gravity, and they've completely transformed how we live. They handle communications (your phone calls, internet, and TV), navigation (sat nav systems accurate to within 2 metres), weather forecasting, and help us observe both Earth and space.
Geostationary satellites orbit at exactly 36,000km above Earth with a 24-hour orbital period, which means they stay fixed above the same spot on Earth's surface. The higher a satellite orbits, the longer its orbital period becomes - it's all about finding the right balance between height and speed.
Quick fact: GPS systems can pinpoint your location to within just 2 metres using satellite technology!