How many miles above the equator do geosynchronous satellites hover?

Geosynchronous satellites orbit at an altitude of approximately 22,300 miles above the Earth's equator. This specific altitude allows them to match the Earth's rotation, meaning they take about 24 hours to complete one orbit. As a result, they remain in a fixed position relative to a point on the Earth's surface, making them ideal for communication, weather monitoring, and other applications that require a constant line of sight. This orbital configuration is critical for functions that rely on consistent communication with ground stations. The choice of 22,300 miles is based on the balance between gravitational forces and the satellite's velocity, which facilitates the satellite's unique stationary characteristic relative to the Earth.