Explain equatorial and polar orbits of artificial satellites.

Artificial satellite is kept in one of the following orbits-

a) Equatorial orbit: The orbits which are parallel to the equator are known as equatorial orbits.

Thus, satellite rotates in an orbit directly above the equator of Earth.

b) Polar orbit: The orbit which is parallel to the meridian is known as polar orbits. Satellites are having an inclination of near 90⁰ from the equator. This allows the satellite to see virtually every part of the Earth as the Earth rotates underneath it.

Here is a nice diagram showing both the orbit of artificial satellites:-