How Do You Calculate the Semi-Minor Axis for a Spacecraft's Orbit?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the semi-minor axis of a spacecraft's orbit, specifically for a mission to Mars. The user initially calculates the major axis as 530 km, derived from the sum of three distances: 150 km, 150 km, and 230 km. The semi-minor axis is then calculated as 265 km by dividing the major axis by 2. The focal length is determined to be 115 km by subtracting Earth's distance to the sun (150 km) from the semi-minor axis. The user also references an equation for calculating the semi-minor axis, b² = (a² - f²).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of orbital mechanics
  • Familiarity with the concepts of major and minor axes
  • Knowledge of the equation for calculating focal lengths in ellipses
  • Basic arithmetic and algebra skills
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the mathematical principles behind orbital mechanics
  • Learn how to apply Kepler's laws of planetary motion
  • Explore the use of software tools for simulating spacecraft orbits
  • Investigate the implications of varying semi-minor axes on orbital stability
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace engineers, astrophysicists, students studying orbital mechanics, and anyone involved in spacecraft mission planning will benefit from this discussion.

rsyodoom2005
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Sending a spacecraft to mArs! Help! pLease!

okay guys so you have to open this file to read the question accuretely.. i have done some calculations but not sure if they are correct.


So just this as best as i can, fist i figure out my semi-minor axis = a
by 150km +150 KM +230 km =530km (major axis) now to get me semi minor axis i will just divide it by 2 . Giving me 265km!

Focal lenght= 265km - Earth's disntace to the sun (150 km) =115 km


Now to get my semi minor axis i use the equation b2=(a2-f2)
(530Km-300km)=b2
b=150km
 
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