Projectile lauched to the east of the earth has a reach R

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SUMMARY

A projectile launched to the east of the Earth has a reach R, which is defined as the measure of the arc, specifically the length of the geodesic curve connecting the launch and impact points. The trajectory of the projectile is not parabolic; instead, it aligns with the geodesical curve on the Earth's surface. The discussion highlights the importance of using an ellipse-segment for long-range ballistic calculations to ensure accuracy in targeting, particularly with modern munitions.

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I am told that a projectile lauched to the east of the Earth has a reach R. Is this the measure of the arc or of the chord joining the point of lauch and the point of fall ?
 
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quasar987 said:
I am told that a projectile lauched to the east of the Earth has a reach R. Is this the measure of the arc or of the chord joining the point of lauch and the point of fall ?

It's the measure of the arc,or if u prefer fancy words,the lengh of the geodesic curve pasing through the 2 points...

However,the projectile's trajectory is not parabolic,as i hope you know...The projection of this curve onto the surface of the Earth should match the geodesical curve.

Daniel.
 
dextercioby said:
It's the measure of the arc,or if u prefer fancy words,the lengh of the geodesic curve pasing through the 2 points...

However,the projectile's trajectory is not parabolic,as i hope you know...The projection of this curve onto the surface of the Earth should match the geodesical curve.

Daniel.

Does it match exactly? I've heard that with the advent of truly long-range (long-range by modern standards) ballistic munitions, it became important to replace the classic image of the parabolic trajectory, and use the ellipse-segment to plot the firing solution, otherwise you miss the target. Does anyone know if that's true?
 

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