The discussion centers on calculating the distance between two orbiting bodies using the two-body problem in Newtonian mechanics. Participants recommend utilizing introductory textbooks on gravitation and suggest employing Excel to model the relationship between mass, distance, and orbital time. By inputting values for mass and center-to-center distance, users can iteratively adjust parameters to achieve desired orbital results. This hands-on approach familiarizes users with the relevant equations and concepts.
PREREQUISITESStudents of physics, amateur astronomers, and anyone interested in orbital mechanics and gravitational calculations.
Any recommendation?Orodruin said:I suggest looking in an introductory textbook on Newtonian mechanics and gravitation.
Google for "two-body problem". You'll need some calculus.Vicara said:Hi to everyone
There is a formula out there to calculate te distance between a mass that is in orbit arround anhoter fix mass?
(And its deduction)
Yesdean barry said:do you have an orbit time ?
Hmm, okay, I'll trydean barry said:why don't you set up an excel sheet, with inputs for mass 1, mass 2, and centre to centre distance, put in some example values, then process through the appropriate maths to reveal an orbit time, then adjust the centre to centre distance if required to close in on the required result, trial and error i know but it will familiarlise you with the equations etc.