Ask a Teacher

where is satellites are located in rockets?

A satellite is sent into space on top of a rocket.The rocket that is used to launch a satellite is called a “launch vehicle.”A launch vehicle is made up of several different segments, or “stages”, with each stage playing a different role.


The upper stage of the launch vehicle is connected to the satellite itself, which is enclosed in a metal shield, called a “fairing.” The fairing protects the satellite while it is being launched and makes it easier for the launch vehicle to travel through the resistance of the Earth's atmosphere. The fairing splits apart once the satellite is above the Earth's atmosphere and burns up in the Earth's atmosphere. The rockets of the upper stage fire after the satellite is in space and put the satellite in the exact spot where it is needed.