orbiter

noun

or·​bit·​er ˈȯr-bə-tər 

: one that orbits: such as

a

: a spacecraft designed to orbit a celestial body without landing on its surface

b

: space shuttle

Examples of orbiter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Mangalyaan Mars orbiter ultimately spent eight years studying Mars from orbit, capturing detailed images of the Red Planet. — Tariq Malik, Space.com, 24 Sep. 2026

To confirm the discovery, the team turned to sharp, close-up images captured by the orbiter’s Narrow-Angle Camera, which also enabled researchers to measure the crater’s shape, size and impact to the surrounding terrain. — CNN Money, 21 Sep. 2026

The agency had intended to name the OV-101 orbiter Constitution. — David Chiu, PEOPLE, 17 Sep. 2026

Fortunately, an unprecedented mission sending two orbiters to Mercury later this year could help answer lingering questions. — Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 11 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

orbit entry 2 + -er entry 2

First Known Use

1951, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

orbiter

noun

or·​bit·​er ˈȯr-bət-ər 

1

: one that orbits

2

: space shuttle