Why don't satellites crash into earth?

Answer 1

Well, they do eventually, when they're done doing their jobs. If defunct satellites don't burn up on their way down, they usually land in the ocean or somewhere else away from civilization.

As for why that doesn't happen immediately, it's science, baby. Satellites are launched into space by rockets, and even though the force of gravity pulls on them, the initial velocity from the rocket is enough to counteract gravity's pull. The closer the satellite is to Earth, the faster it needs to go to stay in orbit. Sometimes they need to change orbit to avoid bumping into another satellite or other space debris, but once they're out there, satellites can stay in orbit for hundreds of years.

Answer 2

they move fast enough

Answer 3

Satellites don't fall from the sky because they are orbiting Earth. Even when satellites are thousands of miles away, Earth's gravity still tugs on them. Gravity--combined with the satellite's momentum from its launch into space--cause the satellite go into orbit above Earth, instead of falling back down to the ground. Details for: amberit.org

Answer 4

Because their job is to give information about planets and communication. But there are chances of it to crash because sometimes satellites get out of control and might crash not only on earth but also on other planets too.

Answer 5

Satellites revolve around the planet at such a speed that can defeat gravity.

Answer 6

Actually satellites are constantly falling to earth but because the earth is in orbit around the sun then the earth isn't where they are falling to (if that makes sense)

Answer 7

Centripetal force is required for it to be and stay in orbit. If you'd like more of an explanation here's the title of the article I read: "circular motion principles for satellites."

Answer 8

satellites tend to be in a relatively limited range of heights and orbital directions. So, satellites and debris are closer to each other and more likely to collide.

Answer 9

They do crash eventually but the Earth's gravity between space and Earth have a weird compelling variable, keeping the satellite in an orbit around Earth. (like the moon) When they do crash it is usually on purpose into the water or open land. They crash them because it is a safer way to get the down then try to attach them to a big rocket.