Gravity & Satellites: Moon's Influence on Earth Satellites

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SUMMARY

The discussion confirms that the Moon's gravitational field has a minimal effect on satellites orbiting Earth, specifically at geostationary orbit, which is approximately 35,888.71 km above Earth. Calculations indicate that the gravitational force exerted by the Moon on a 10,000 kg satellite is approximately 66,574,088 Newtons, while the force from Earth is significantly greater at 1.68e26 Newtons. Despite the Moon's influence on tides, its gravitational pull on satellites is negligible compared to that of Earth.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational force calculations
  • Familiarity with geostationary orbit parameters
  • Knowledge of the masses of celestial bodies (Earth and Moon)
  • Basic physics concepts related to orbital mechanics
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  • Research gravitational force calculations in orbital mechanics
  • Explore the effects of celestial bodies on satellite trajectories
  • Learn about tidal forces and their influence on Earth
  • Investigate the dynamics of geostationary satellites
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Aerospace engineers, astrophysicists, satellite operators, and anyone interested in the gravitational interactions between celestial bodies and their effects on satellite orbits.

thomasxc
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does the moon's gravitational field have any considerable affect on satellites orbiting earth??
 
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distance between moon and Earth (center to center) = 384,403km
mass of moon = 7.3477 × 10e22 kg
mass of Earth = 5.9736 × 10e24 kg
geostationary orbit = 35,888.71 km

u can calculate the gravitational field strengths (by Earth or moon) at the geostationary orbit and compares the values.
 
you know, you have to add Earth's radius to the geostationary orbit, i think. i got 66574088 Newtons for the force between the moon and satellite-assuming that the satellite weighs 10,000 kilos. and i got 1.68e26 for the force between Earth and the satellite. but i think my math may be slightly off. but if its right, the moons force is only a very slight percentage of the earth's. even so, id think that if the moon can influence the tides, then it can influence a satellite which is a lot closer to it...
 

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