Question

State whether the given statement is true or false:
It is possible to put an artificial satellite in orbit in such a way that it always remains directly over New Delhi.
(A) True
(B) False

Answer 1

A satellite will appear stationary only when it revolves in an orbit concentric and coplanar with the equatorial plane having a time period of revolution 24 hours and it should have the same sense of revolution from west to east as that of earth.

Complete step by step answer:
To solve this question, we must have an understanding of geostationary satellites:

Geostationary Satellite:
These satellites are placed into orbit at a distance of around 35,800 km from the earth’s surface above the equator. They rotate in the same direction as the earth and one revolution of such satellites is the same as one day on earth (roughly 24 hours). This means that, as seen from earth, these satellites will appear to be at the same spot throughout. Hence, the name “geostationary” satellites. These satellites are used as communication satellites and for weather-based applications. Now, the answer to the question is false.
Since, New Delhi is not in the equatorial plane, hence it will not be possible to put a geostationary satellite over New Delhi.

Note: Geostationary satellites can only be launched above the equator because in other orbits it is not possible for them to remain stationary with respect to a specific point on ground.