Satellites — Set 1
Technology · उपग्रह · Questions 1–10 of 50
What is the primary function of a Geostationary satellite?
Correct Answer: A. Providing telecommunication services
The correct answer is 'Providing telecommunication services'. Geostationary satellites remain fixed above a specific point on Earth to provide continuous coverage. This position is ideal for transmitting television signals and long-distance communication. They orbit at an altitude of approximately 35,786 kilometers.
Which country launched the world's first artificial satellite, Sputnik 1?
Correct Answer: D. Soviet Union
The Soviet Union launched Sputnik 1 into orbit on October 4, 1957. This event marked the beginning of the Space Age and triggered the space race. It was a small metal sphere with four external radio antennas.
What is the orbital period of a Geostationary satellite?
Correct Answer: A. 24 hours
A geostationary satellite completes one orbit in approximately 24 hours, matching Earth's rotation. Because the speeds are synchronized, the satellite appears stationary from the ground. This allows ground antennas to stay pointed at the satellite without tracking systems.
Which type of orbit is commonly used by remote sensing satellites for consistent lighting conditions?
Correct Answer: D. Sun-Synchronous Orbit
Sun-synchronous orbits allow satellites to pass over a location at the same local solar time. This ensures consistent illumination for capturing high-quality Earth imagery. Most environmental and mapping satellites use this near-polar orbit.
What is the approximate altitude of satellites in the Low Earth Orbit (LEO)?
Correct Answer: A. 160 to 2,000 km
Low Earth Orbit is the region relatively close to the Earth's surface. Most scientific satellites and the International Space Station reside in this zone. Satellites in LEO travel at high speeds to avoid falling into the atmosphere.
Which of the following is an example of a passive satellite?
Correct Answer: A. Moon
A passive satellite does not generate its own signals but reflects energy from other sources. The Moon is a natural passive satellite of the Earth. In early space technology, metalized balloons like Echo 1 were used as artificial passive satellites.
What is the name of India's first satellite launched in 1975?
Correct Answer: C. Aryabhata
Aryabhata was India's pioneer satellite, named after the famous 5th-century astronomer. It was launched by the Soviet Union using a Kosmos-3M rocket. This milestone established the foundation for India's indigenous space capabilities.
Which part of the satellite provides electrical power using sunlight?
Correct Answer: C. Solar panels
Solar panels convert light energy from the Sun into electricity to power the satellite's instruments. Rechargeable batteries are used to maintain power when the satellite is in the Earth's shadow. This renewable energy source is critical for long-term mission survival.
What does the term 'Apogee' refer to in satellite technology?
Correct Answer: D. The highest point in orbit
Apogee is the point in an elliptical orbit where the satellite is farthest from the Earth. The opposite point, where it is closest to Earth, is called the perigee. Knowing these points is essential for calculating the satellite's orbital trajectory.
Which satellite system is primarily used for global positioning and navigation?
Correct Answer: A. GPS
Global Positioning System (GPS) utilizes a constellation of satellites to provide precise location data. It was originally developed by the US Department of Defense for military use. Today, it is used worldwide for civilian navigation in phones and vehicles.