Explain "orbital mechanics" concerning geodetic satellites.

Orbital mechanics, in the context of geodetic satellites, refers to the study of the motion of these satellites as they travel around the Earth, influenced by gravitational forces. Understanding this field is crucial for geodetic engineers, as it allows them to predict satellite paths accurately, determine their positions in orbit, and assess how various factors, such as gravitational pulls from the Earth and other celestial bodies, affect satellite trajectories.

Geodetic satellites are used for precise measurements of the Earth's surface, monitoring tectonic movements, and improving navigational systems. To function effectively, it's important to understand their orbits, including their speed, altitude, and the forces acting upon them. This knowledge is instrumental in ensuring the reliability and accuracy of the data collected by these satellites, which has direct implications in areas like mapping, surveying, and various geospatial applications.