Which orbit type has an altitude range of 160 to 2000 km?

• A. Low Earth Orbit
• B. Medium Earth Orbit
• C. Geosynchronous Orbit
• D. Highly Elliptical Orbit

Answer: (A)

Orbital altitude bands define how a satellite interacts with Earth and mission goals. The range from about 160 km up to 2,000 km above the surface is the region commonly classified as Low Earth Orbit. At these heights, gravity keeps the satellite in orbit, but atmospheric drag is still a factor, which influences how long the satellite stays aloft and how often it needs reboosts. This band is favored for imaging, some communication relays, and reconnaissance because it offers relatively low latency and higher-resolution observations compared to higher orbits.

Medium Earth Orbit sits higher, roughly from 2,000 km to about 35,786 km, and Geosynchronous Orbit is a specific case near 35,786 km where the satellite's orbital period matches Earth's rotation. Highly Elliptical Orbit involves a highly elongated path with large swings in altitude, not restricted to a narrow range like 160–2000 km. So the altitude range of 160 to 2000 km uniquely matches Low Earth Orbit.