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:
“The Fitchburg Railroad touches the pond about a hundred rods south of where I dwell. I usually go to the village along its causeway, and am, as it were, related to society by this link. The men on the freight trains, who go over the whole length of the road, bow to me as to an old acquaintance, they pass me so often, and apparently they take me for an employee; and so I am. I too would fain be a track-repairer somewhere in the orbit of the earth.”
—Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)