How Does a Rocket Stay in Orbit?

A rocket or satellite stays in orbit by maintaining a fast enough speed that prevents it from being pulled down by gravity, and slow enough to keep the rocket from escaping the orbit, according to Radio-Electronics.com.

Different Orbits

The rotating rocket must achieve a balance between gravity and centrifugal force that would keep the rocket moving in a straight light rather than an orbit. Many different orbits are possible. A lower orbit is subject to stronger gravitational pull, meaning that a rocket must have more speed to resist it.

Height of Orbit

At an altitude of about 100 miles above the earth, the rocket must maintain a speed of about 17,500 miles per hour. At an altitude of 22,000 miles, a speed of less than 7000 miles per hour is required.

Geostationary Orbits

A geostationary orbit is commonly chosen for objects because it maintains the same position relative to the Earth and does not require tracking to determine its position. It may be necessary to fire rocket engines periodically to prevent drifting.

References

• Define.com: Rocket
• Adrio Communications Ltd: Satellites orbit