satellite
SAT-uh-lite
/ˈsætəlaɪt/
An artificial body placed in orbit around the Earth or another planet to collect information or for communication. Also, a celestial body orbiting a planet or star (e.g., a moon).
Can refer to both natural (like Earth's Moon) and artificial objects. In common usage, it usually refers to artificial satellites.
The story behind the word. The word 'satellite' comes from the Latin `satelles`, meaning 'attendant' or 'bodyguard.' This origin dates back to Johannes Kepler, who used the term in the early 17th century to describe the moons of Jupiter, which 'attended' the giant planet. The idea of a smaller body accompanying a larger one perfectly translated to artificial objects orbiting Earth centuries later.
Word relationships
- moon: Specifically a natural satellite of a planet.
- orbiter: A spacecraft designed to orbit a celestial body without landing.
Collocations
- communication satellite
- weather satellite
- spy satellite
- geostationary satellite
- artificial satellite
Example sentences
- "Communication satellites enable global television broadcasts and internet connectivity." Describing communication technology.
- "Jupiter has many natural satellites, including the four large Galilean moons." Describing natural celestial bodies.
Memory hook
A SATELLITE is like a SITting LITE (light) that stays with a planet. SATELLITE = attendant.
When not to use
Do not use 'satellite' for objects that are merely traveling through space without being gravitationally bound in a stable orbit around a larger body.
Fun facts
- The first artificial satellite, Sputnik 1, was launched by the Soviet Union in 1957.
- There are thousands of active and defunct artificial satellites orbiting Earth.
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