SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/aero-earth-orbit-classes

What are the three main height classes of Earth orbit?

Low, medium and high Earth orbit.

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  1. Low, medium and high ✔
  2. Polar, lunar and solar
  3. Inner, outer and lunar

Why: Engineers often group Earth orbits by altitude into low, medium and high classes. Different heights suit different jobs, speeds and views.

Huh, didn't know that: Height, orbit shape and inclination together determine a satellite's path and view.

The dad joke
Orbit classes are like shelves, except everything keeps moving.
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References

Answer: Low, medium and high. Engineers often group Earth orbits by altitude into low, medium and high classes. Different heights suit different jobs, speeds and views.

  1. Catalog of Earth Satellite Orbits science.nasa.gov/earth/earth-observatory/catalog-of-earth-satellite-orbits
    There are essentially three types of Earth orbits: high Earth orbit, medium Earth orbit, and low Earth orbit.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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