Calculating Angle & Speed to Reach Planet's Moon from Station Orbit

In summary: In that case, the question might make sense.In summary, the problem involves determining the angle and additional speed needed for a station orbiting a planet at distance R1 to reach a moon orbiting the planet at distance R2 with period T. It is suggested that this can be achieved by adding velocity at a point in the orbit, causing the height of the opposite orbit to increase. However, it is unclear what is meant by "adding velocity" and "opposite orbit". The question may require knowledge of tangential velocity and conservation of energy, but additional information, such as the initial angular separation of the bodies, is needed for a complete answer.
  • #1
dirb
3
0
Homework Statement
Find angle and velocity
Relevant Equations
Unsure
A station is orbiting a planet at a distance R1, a moon is orbiting the planet at distance R2 with the period T. The planet itself has a radius rp and a mass mp. We know that when an object adds its velocity at a point in the orbit, the height of the opposite orbit will increase. Determine the angle $\theta$ and additional speed so that the station reaches the moon of the planet.

I was thinking that it has something to do with tangential velocity, and conservation of energy but I don't know how to write the maths? Which concepts should I use in this problem? thanks!
 
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  • #2
dirb said:
Homework Statement:: Find angle and velocity
Relevant Equations:: Unsure

We know that when an object adds its velocity at a point in the orbit, the height of the opposite orbit will increase.
Unsure what is meant by "when an object adds its velocity". Do you mean "when an impulse is given to an object in orbit so as to increase its speed"?
And what is the "opposite orbit"? Is this a translation?

As to reaching the moon, a one time impulse to an object in a circular orbit will produce an elliptical one. And even if we got the station into the same circular orbit as the moon, it would necessarily be at the same period as the moon, so still might never reach it. I don't see how the question can be answered without knowing the initial angular separation of the bodies.

Edit: assuming the two given radii are different, the periods are different. Maybe we are to assume the impulse is given at the ideal point (the one requiring the least impulse) in their relative motions.
 

1. How do you calculate the angle and speed needed to reach a planet's moon from a station orbit?

To calculate the angle and speed needed to reach a planet's moon from a station orbit, you will need to use the laws of orbital mechanics. This involves determining the orbital parameters of the moon, such as its distance from the planet, its orbital period, and its velocity. You will also need to know the orbital parameters of the station, such as its altitude, inclination, and velocity. Using these parameters, you can then calculate the required angle and speed using mathematical equations.

2. What factors influence the angle and speed needed to reach a planet's moon from a station orbit?

The angle and speed needed to reach a planet's moon from a station orbit are influenced by several factors. These include the distance between the planet and its moon, the mass and gravitational pull of the planet and its moon, the altitude and inclination of the station's orbit, and the current position of the moon in its orbit. Other factors such as atmospheric drag and solar radiation can also affect the angle and speed required for the journey.

3. Can the angle and speed needed to reach a planet's moon from a station orbit be calculated for any planet and moon?

Yes, the angle and speed needed to reach a planet's moon from a station orbit can be calculated for any planet and moon, as long as the necessary orbital parameters are known. However, the calculations may vary slightly depending on the specific characteristics of each planet and moon.

4. How accurate are the calculations for determining the angle and speed needed to reach a planet's moon from a station orbit?

The accuracy of the calculations for determining the angle and speed needed to reach a planet's moon from a station orbit depends on the accuracy of the input data and the complexity of the equations used. With precise and up-to-date orbital parameters, the calculations can be highly accurate. However, other factors such as atmospheric conditions and gravitational perturbations can also affect the actual angle and speed needed for the journey.

5. Are there any tools or software available for calculating the angle and speed needed to reach a planet's moon from a station orbit?

Yes, there are various tools and software available for calculating the angle and speed needed to reach a planet's moon from a station orbit. These include computer programs and online calculators that use advanced mathematical equations and algorithms to determine the required parameters. Some space agencies and organizations also provide specialized software for this purpose, which may be more accurate and tailored to specific missions.

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