An areostationary orbit (abbreviated ASO) is a circular areosynchronous orbit in the Martian equatorial plane about 17,000 km (11,000 mi) above the surface, any point on which revolves about Mars in the same direction and with the same period as the Martian surface. Although no artificial satellites have been placed so far in this orbit, it is of interest to some scientists foreseeing a future telecommunications network for the exploration of Mars. An asteroid or station placed in areostationary orbit could also be used to construct a Martian space elevator for use in transfers between the surface of Mars and orbit. Areostationary orbit is a concept similar to Earth's geostationary orbit.
The prefix areo- derives from Ares, the ancient Greek god of war and counterpart to the Roman god Mars, with whom the planet was identified. The modern Greek word for Mars is Άρης (Áris).
The formula for finding the geostationary orbit of any planetary body (including Mars) is located in the article Geostationary orbit
Famous quotes containing the word orbit:
“Words can have no single fixed meaning. Like wayward electrons, they can spin away from their initial orbit and enter a wider magnetic field. No one owns them or has a proprietary right to dictate how they will be used.”
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