Elliptical Orbit: Determine Foci & Missile Path

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In an elliptical orbit, the position of the star is located at one of the two foci, but determining which focus it is requires additional information. To ascertain whether a missile launched from Earth will reach perihelion or aphelion first, knowledge of its velocity at a specific point in the orbit is essential. The discussion emphasizes that understanding the velocity can clarify the trajectory and timing of the orbit. The initial inquiry reflects a common confusion regarding the dynamics of elliptical orbits. Overall, the relationship between velocity and orbital position is crucial for accurate predictions in orbital mechanics.
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Given an elliptical orbit, if I know all parameters of the ellipse, is it possible to determine in which of the two foci is the star? To be more precise, if I put into orbit a missile from earth, it will reach first the perihelion and then aphelion or vice versa? How can I know?
 
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If you know the velocity of the projectile somewhere along the orbit, then you shoudl be able to tell.
 
You are right, it is straightforward, I should have given it more thought. Thanks, anyway.
 
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