geosynchronous

The key to this concept was the placement of space stations in 'geosynchronous' Earth orbit, a location 35,786 kilometers above Earth.

For early-warning purposes, scientists look to observations from 'geosynchronous' weather satellites, each of which constantly monitors an entire hemisphere and beams data to Earth every 30 minutes or so.

The tail of the 'geosynchronous' satellite launch vehicle was engulfed seconds before the planned liftoff, disappointing hundreds, including space scientists.

Up to a dozen 'geosynchronous' satellites go out of service every year, and there are now several hundred derelicts in the disposal orbit.

There, the rockets will link up, creating an 80-ton spacecraft that will ascend to 22,000 miles and lock into 'geosynchronous' orbit.