[Rockingham]

Yes, all geostationary orbits are over the equator. The weight of a satellite does not affect the orbit, only the power of the boost need to place it there. On the other hand, heavier satellites tend to be more capable, more consequential, and more expensive. This particular satellite seems to be a stop gap to avoid loss of defense communications capability before the next generation of major defense communications satellites is built and orbited.

[samtheman]

Thanks for your answer but I’m still not clear on this point:

Is it true that there is a single line circling the earth, parallel to the equator and a certain specific distance from the earth (22,000 miles, or whatever the exact number is), and that ALL geosynchronous satellites must share that one single (circle) line?

Is that the case?