Geostationary Transfer Orbit

A Geostationary Transfer Orbit (GTO) is an elliptical (oval-shaped) path used to send satellites from Earth's surface into geostationary orbit. A spacecraft is first launched into this intermediate orbit, which has a higher point (apogee) near geostationary altitude and a lower point (perigee) closer to Earth. From GTO, a small onboard engine performs a final maneuver called a orbit-raising burn, circularizing the orbit at geostationary altitude directly above the equator. This process efficiently transfers the satellite to its permanent position where it matches Earth's rotation, allowing it to stay fixed relative to a specific point on the ground.