Four Advantages of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) Satellites

The emergence of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite technology offers several advantages over Medium Earth Orbit (MEO) and Geostationary Equatorial Orbit (GEO) satellites, making it an appealing choice for transport operators to consider.

Reduced Latency

LEO satellites orbit at altitudes between 160km and 2,000 km, much closer to the Earth's surface than either MEO and GEO satellites; for comparison, GPS satellites orbit in MEO at around 20,200 km, while GEO satellites reside at 35,786 km above the equator.

The proximity of LEO satellites to the Earth means signals travel a shorter distance, resulting in lower latency.

Cost-Effective Deployment

Launching satellites into LEO is relatively easy and affordable compared to MEO and GEO satellites, allowing them to better keep pace with technological innovation.

The lower altitude and smaller orbital radius of LEOs reduce the energy requirements for launch, making global coverage more accessible for satellite constellations.

Higher Data Throughput

LEO satellites provide higher data throughput than MEO and GEO satellites. They can transmit and receive data at a faster rate, allowing for more efficient data transfer.

Increased Reliability

LEO satellites can be interconnected in a mesh network configuration, allowing cross-linking. If one satellite experiences an issue or goes offline, the other satellites within the network can compensate for the loss, ensuring uninterrupted service. And, Since LEO satellites can more easily provide better global coverage, it becomes easier to establish connections with multiple satellites from any position.