MEO orbit

An MEO orbit is an intermediate orbit between low orbit and geostationary orbit. MEO satellites (2600 and 3000 kg) travel at an altitude of 10000 km in circular orbits. The orbital period is about 6 hours and a terrestrial observer can see a satellite for several hours (about 6 hours).

A global transmission system using this type of orbit requires a smaller number of satellites than LEO constellations. 2 or 3 orbital planes are enough to give global coverage. An MEO type constellation works in a similar way to LEO systems; however, due to its structure it needs less "handover" management.