Editing Low Earth orbit (section)

=== Disadvantages ===
Unlike [[geosynchronous satellite|geosynchronous satellites]], satellites in low orbit have a small [[field of view]] and can only observe and communicate with a fraction of the Earth at a given time. This means that a large network (or [[Satellite constellation|constellation]]) of satellites is required to provide continuous coverage.

Satellites at lower altitudes of orbit are in the atmosphere and suffer from rapid [[orbital decay]], requiring either periodic re-boosting to maintain stable orbits, or the launching of replacements for those that re-enter the atmosphere. The effects of adding such quantities of vaporized metals to Earth's [[stratosphere]] are potentially of concern but currently unknown.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/space-junk-is-polluting-earths-stratosphere-with-vaporized-metal/ | title=Space Junk is Polluting Earth's Stratosphere with Vaporized Metal | website=[[Scientific American]] }}</ref>