It is desired to place a satellite in earth polar orbit such

It is desired to place a satellite in earth polar orbit such that successive ground tracks at the equator are spaced 3000 km apart. Determine the required altitude of the circular orbit.

Solution

Seq = (2pi*Re)/norb

Seq = 3000

Re = 6400

norb = 13.39

P = 1/norb

P = .0746

P = 2pi*((Re + h)/GMe)^1/2

h = 1440km (answer)