Find the angle so that it seems that Mars is approaching to you

In summary, the speaker knows that ##v_{M/S}=v_M - v_S## and ##v_M = (-24.1;0)##. They also use trigonometry to find ##v_S=(-19.3 sin 30°;19.3 cos 30°)##. This allows them to find ##v_{M/S}##, but they are unsure about the angle ##\beta##. However, they mention that with all three sides of a triangle, the angles can be determined. When asked about the triangle, they clarify that it is formed by ##v_S##, ##v_M##, and ##v_{M/S}##, and that since the time until collision is fixed,
  • #1
Like Tony Stark
179
6
Homework Statement
The spaceship S approaches Mars following the trajectory ##b−b## with velocity ##19.3 km/s## with respect to the Sun. If Mars has a velocity ##24.1 km/s## along the trajectory ##a−a## with respect to the Sun and the angle between ##b-b## and ##a-a## is ##30°## determine the angle between ##SM## and ##b−b## such that a person inside the spaceship "sees" that Mars is moving towards him
Relevant Equations
##v_{M/S}=v_M - v_S##.
I know that ##v_{M/S}=v_M - v_S##. I also know that ##v_M = (-24.1;0)##. Then, using some trigonometry, ##v_S=(-19.3 sin 30°;19.3 cos 30°)##.
So I can find ##v_{M/S}##. But that doesn't tell me anything about the angle ##\beta##.
 

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  • #2
You have all three sides of a triangle, you can find the angles.
 
  • #3
mfb said:
You have all three sides of a triangle, you can find the angles.
What triangle are you talking about? The one formed by the ##v_S##, ##v_M## and ##v_{M/S}##?
 
  • #4
Yes. The time until you and Mars collide is fixed, so distances and velocities are proportional to each other.
 

1. How do you calculate the angle needed to make Mars seem like it is approaching?

To calculate the angle, you would first need to determine your current distance from Mars and its orbital speed. Then, using trigonometry, you can calculate the angle needed to make it appear closer to you.

2. Is there a specific time or location where this effect can be observed?

Yes, to see Mars appear to be approaching you, you would need to be at a specific location on Earth when Mars is at its closest approach to our planet. This typically occurs every 26 months.

3. Can this phenomenon be observed with the naked eye?

Yes, it is possible to observe Mars appearing to be approaching with the naked eye. However, using a telescope or binoculars may enhance the effect.

4. How does the angle change as Mars gets closer or farther away?

The angle needed to make Mars appear closer will change as the planet gets closer or farther away. The angle will decrease as Mars gets closer and increase as it moves farther away.

5. Are there any other factors that can affect the appearance of Mars approaching?

Yes, there are other factors that can affect the appearance of Mars approaching. These include atmospheric conditions, the time of day, and the location of the observer on Earth.

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