Can You Achieve a Circular Orbit with Non-Perpendicular Launch Velocities?

In summary, circular orbital velocity is the speed an object must travel in a circular orbit to maintain stability. It can be calculated using the formula v = √(GM/R) and is affected by factors such as mass, distance, and gravitational force. It differs from escape velocity, which is the speed needed to break free from a gravitational pull. Circular orbital velocity is crucial in space travel for maintaining orbits and calculating necessary velocities for reaching other planets or returning to Earth.
  • #1
m00npirate
50
0
If you are at the distance R from a planet and you want to achieve a circular orbit your velocity must be Sqrt[Gm/R] perpendicular to the radius vector.

But what if you launch at an angle (ie no longer perpendicular to the radius)? Is it still possible to achieve a circular orbit if the perpendicular component is still Sqrt[Gm/R]?
 
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  • #2
Mt guess is that you will end up with some sort of ellipse.
 
  • #3
You will definitely have a non-circular ellipse.
 

FAQ: Can You Achieve a Circular Orbit with Non-Perpendicular Launch Velocities?

What is circular orbital velocity?

Circular orbital velocity is the speed at which an object must travel in a circular orbit around another object, such as a planet or star, in order to maintain a stable orbit.

How is circular orbital velocity calculated?

Circular orbital velocity can be calculated using the formula v = √(GM/R), where v is the circular orbital velocity, G is the gravitational constant, M is the mass of the central object, and R is the distance between the two objects.

What factors affect circular orbital velocity?

There are several factors that can affect circular orbital velocity, including the mass of the central object, the distance between the two objects, and the gravitational force between them. Other factors may include the shape and size of the orbit, as well as any external forces acting on the object.

What is the difference between circular orbital velocity and escape velocity?

Circular orbital velocity is the speed needed to maintain a stable orbit, while escape velocity is the speed needed for an object to break free from the gravitational pull of the central object and escape into space. Escape velocity is typically higher than circular orbital velocity.

How does circular orbital velocity play a role in space travel?

Circular orbital velocity is important in space travel as it determines the speed needed for a spacecraft to maintain a stable orbit around a planet or other celestial body. It is also used in calculating the necessary velocity for spacecraft to reach other planets or to return to Earth.

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