BlueSkyy said:i'm still getting a ridiculous number for the distance...i assume i use Newton's form of Kepler's 3rd law but do i keep the period in hours or seconds? argh...
A circular orbit is the path that an object follows around another object, where the distance between the two objects remains constant. In a circular orbit, the object is constantly pulled towards the center by the force of gravity, causing it to move in a circular path.
Satellites stay in orbit by maintaining a delicate balance between their forward motion and the force of gravity pulling them towards the Earth. This is known as centripetal force. As long as the satellite maintains its speed and altitude, it will continue to orbit the Earth.
The speed of a satellite in orbit is affected by several factors, including the mass of the satellite, the mass of the object it is orbiting, and the distance between the two objects. The larger the mass of the object being orbited, the faster the satellite will need to travel to maintain its orbit.
Scientists use mathematical equations, such as Kepler's laws of planetary motion, to calculate the trajectory of a satellite in orbit. These equations take into account the mass of the objects, their distance apart, and the speed and direction of the satellite's motion.
Yes, satellites can orbit other celestial bodies besides Earth, such as the Moon, Mars, and even asteroids. The same principles of circular motion and gravity apply to these orbits, but the specific calculations may vary depending on the characteristics of the celestial body being orbited.