OtterKnow Kids EncyclopediaA satellite is anything that goes around a planet or star in space. The Moon is a natural satellite that goes around Earth! But people have also built thousands of man-made satellites and sent them into space to help us every day.
Man-made satellites are launched into space on rockets. Once they are in orbit, they circle around Earth again and again. Different satellites do different jobs. Some take pictures of Earth to help with weather forecasts. Others send TV shows and internet to your home. Some help your family’s phone know exactly where you are using GPS!
- The first satellite ever launched was called Sputnik, and it went to space in 1957.
- There are thousands of satellites orbiting Earth right now.
- Satellites travel at about 17,500 miles per hour to stay in orbit!
