Satellite RNA is a term that refers to a small RNA molecule that depends on the presence of a helper virus to replicate. This type of RNA is also known as subviral RNA or defective interfering RNA. There are several synonyms for satellite RNA, including viral satellite RNA, satRNA, and satellite virus RNA. Some other terms that are sometimes used to describe this type of RNA include parasitic RNA, biologically active RNA, and non-coding RNA. While satellite RNA is not considered a virus on its own, it can have a significant impact on virus replication and pathogenesis by interfering with the helper virus.