What is the term for the path a satellite follows around Earth?

The path that a satellite follows around Earth is called an orbit. An orbit is the curved trajectory determined by the balance between the satellite’s forward velocity and Earth’s gravitational pull. Orbits can be circular or elliptical, depending on the mission’s purpose. Common types include geostationary orbits (used for communication and weather satellites) and polar orbits (used for mapping and Earth observation). The height and shape of the orbit determine how long the satellite takes to complete one revolution. Understanding orbital mechanics is essential for placing satellites accurately and maintaining their stability in space.