📘 Definition
A Sun-Synchronous Orbit (SSO) is a nearly polar orbit carefully tuned so that the satellite crosses any given latitude at the same local solar time on every orbit. This ensures consistent illumination conditions for imaging, which is essential for Earth observation, environmental monitoring, and remote sensing. Typical SSO altitudes range from 600–800 km with inclinations of 96–99°. Landsat and Sentinel satellites operate in SSO.