Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO)

A Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO) is a specially designed orbit used to efficiently send satellites to geostationary positions—where they stay fixed relative to Earth's surface. It’s an elliptical (oval-shaped) path, with the satellite launched into GTO first, then maneuvered to a circular geostationary orbit. GTO's high elliptical shape allows rockets to save fuel during launch by reaching a high-altitude orbit before performing a final engine burn. This orbit is essential for deploying communications, weather, and broadcast satellites, optimizing launch efficiency while ensuring satellites stay in a fixed position relative to Earth once in operation.