RAAN & the ascending node

The ascending node is where a satellite crosses the equator heading north; RAAN (right ascension of the ascending node) is the angle that fixes that crossing point in space.

Together with inclination, RAAN orients the orbital plane, setting which ground tracks the satellite will follow.

Earth's equatorial bulge slowly rotates the RAAN over time — an effect that sun-synchronous orbits deliberately harness.

See it live on Cosmik

satellite tracker

Related terms

Orbital inclination — Orbital inclination is the angle between a satellite's orbital plane and Earth's equator, measured in degrees.
Sun-synchronous orbit — A sun-synchronous orbit (SSO) is a near-polar low Earth orbit tuned so the satellite passes over every location at the same local solar time on each visit.
Ground track — A ground track is the path traced on Earth's surface directly beneath a satellite as it orbits.

← All space terms

🛰 Your week in space, before it happens

One free Monday round-up: the launches, passes and sky events worth your time. No spam.

Free · no account · unsubscribe anytime

✈ Telegram

✦ Premium

Cosmik Pro

When clouds kill the pass, Pro tells you where nearby the sky WILL be clear — and how far. Plus your own alert timing, several locations, every visible pass instead of just the next one, and no ads.

🔒 Secure checkout by Stripe · cancel anytime