Calulate the distance of objects in Earth's orbit

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the distance of objects in Earth's orbit using orbital mechanics. The participant employs the orbital speed equation, v = SQRT(G*M/R), and the acceleration equation, a = G*M/R^2, to analyze velocity and acceleration based on distance from Earth. They suggest exploring trigonometric solutions and orbit determination methods, which vary in complexity depending on the available observational data from ground stations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of orbital mechanics, specifically the equations for orbital speed and acceleration.
  • Familiarity with gravitational constant (G) and mass of Earth (M).
  • Knowledge of trigonometry as it applies to angular measurements in astronomy.
  • Experience with observational data analysis techniques in astrodynamics.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "orbit determination methods" to understand various techniques for calculating orbital parameters.
  • Study "trigonometric solutions in orbital mechanics" to apply trigonometry in distance calculations.
  • Explore "ground-based observational techniques" for gathering data on celestial objects.
  • Investigate "astrodynamics software tools" that assist in simulating and calculating orbital paths.
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy students, astrophysicists, and anyone involved in satellite tracking or orbital mechanics will benefit from this discussion.

VinnyO

Homework Statement


I am working on a report dealing with the velocity and acceleration of objects in Earth's surface based on distance from the Earth and thus far I have used the orbital speed equation and the acceleration equation. To get dive deeper into the math I would like to attempt to calculate the distance of these objects based on observations from Earth's surface. I have yet to fine something on the internet.

Homework Equations


v = SQRT(G*M/R)
a = G*M/R^2

The Attempt at a Solution


I have figured that there is likely a trigonometric solution.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Unless there's a particular scenario that you have in mind, it sounds like might want to investigate orbit determination methods. There are several that are based on observations from ground stations. The complexity depends upon what observables are available (just angles, angles and distance, radial velocity, etc.).
 

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