Here's why it's not straightforward:
* Low Earth Orbit (LEO): Most satellites are in LEO, ranging from 160 to 2,000 km (100-1240 miles). This is where the International Space Station orbits.
* Near-Earth Orbit (NEO): This is a less-defined region, sometimes considered the lower end of LEO.
* Atmospheric Satellites: Some satellites, like those used for atmospheric research, might even fly within the upper atmosphere, technically not considered "in space" but still orbiting the Earth.
Therefore, there is no single "lowest altitude" for satellites. It depends on what kind of satellite you're talking about.
However, the lowest possible altitude for a stable orbit is around 160 kilometers (100 miles). Below this, atmospheric drag would quickly cause the satellite to slow down and re-enter the atmosphere.
Some examples of satellites flying at very low altitudes:
* Microsatellites: These small satellites are sometimes launched into very low orbits, even below 160 km, for short-duration missions.
* Atmospheric research satellites: These satellites might "skim" the upper atmosphere, even dipping below the 100 km mark for short periods.
Important Note: The altitude of a satellite is constantly changing due to atmospheric drag and other factors.
