A satellite orbits Earth in a circular path with a radius of 7,000 kilometers. If it completes one orbit every 90 minutes, what is its orbital speed in kilometers per hour?

Sun, 03 May 2026 10:36:00 +0000

**Curious About How Satellites Wander Above Us—Here’s Their Speed** Ever wonder what keeps a satellite circling Earth every 90 minutes? The answer lies in the quiet balance of motion, gravity, and radius. A satellite orbiting at 7,000 kilometers from Earth’s center travels an impressive circular path—and its speed isn’t random. With modern satellite data and basic physics, we can calculate exactly how fast this silent observer moves through space. For readers interested in space tech, global connectivity, or orbital mechanics, understanding these speeds reveals how Earth’s orbit-like relationships enable GPS, communications, and weather tracking—critical systems Americans depend on daily. Why is this topic gaining traction now? Advances in satellite deployment, from constellations enabling global internet to precision space navigation, are shifting public interest. People are not just fascinated by space— they’re curious about how science powers everyday life, from weather alerts to family location services. This curiosity is fueled by rising awareness of low-Earth orbit infrastructure and its real-world impact. A satellite orbiting Earth in a circular path with a radius of 7,000 kilometers completes one full revolution in 90 minutes. Using the formula for orbital speed—calculated by dividing the circumference of the orbit by the orbital period—we find the satellite moves at approximately 29.9 kilometers per second. When converted to kilometers per hour, that speed equals roughly 107,640 kilometers per hour. This high velocity explains why these satellites cover vast distances in a short time, keeping their coverage precise and reliable.