Compute Aphelion from Eccentricity & Perihelion

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SUMMARY

The computation of aphelion from eccentricity and perihelion involves understanding the relationship between these parameters in an elliptical orbit. The formula used is r_a = (r_p(1+e))/(1-e), where r_a is the aphelion, r_p is the perihelion, and e is the eccentricity. In this case, with a perihelion of 0.2301 AU and an eccentricity of 0.999846, the expected aphelion should be 4699 AU. The initial calculation of 2988 AU was incorrect due to a misapplication of the formulas.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of orbital mechanics and elliptical orbits
  • Familiarity with the concepts of perihelion and aphelion
  • Knowledge of eccentricity in relation to orbital shapes
  • Basic proficiency in algebraic manipulation of equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the radial equation for elliptical orbits
  • Learn about the implications of eccentricity on orbital dynamics
  • Explore the calculations of semi-major and semi-minor axes in orbits
  • Investigate the use of Kepler's laws in orbital mechanics
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, astrophysicists, and students of orbital mechanics will benefit from this discussion, particularly those interested in calculating orbital parameters of celestial bodies.

Logarythmic
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If I have the eccentricity and the perihelion of an orbit given, how can I compute the aphelion?
 
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You need to think of what angles correspond the the perihelion and aphelion. Then use the relation between r, e, theta and l to get the aphelion.
 
Can I not just use the relation for an ellipse:

e = \frac{d}{a}

where d is the distance from the focal point to the center and a is the semi major axis?
 
Well yes if you know a and d. You'd get the same result. You might need J as well though.
 
I just used the radial equation

r_a = \frac{a(1 - e^2)}{1 + e \cos \pi} = a(1+e)

This leads to

r_a = \frac{r_p(1+e)}{1-e}

where I have used that

a = \frac{r_a + r_p}{2}

But for r_p = 0,2301 AU I get r_a = 2988 AU and this is wrong. I should get r_a =4699 AU. Am I too tired or what is this?
I have that e = 0,999846
 

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