How long does it take for 3 planets to align themselves at an angle

In summary, the project involves a Hohmann transfer from Earth to Mars and a flyby gravity assist at Mars before heading towards Jupiter. The exact time needed for the three planets to line up at a specific angle is unknown, but the known information includes the original positions of the planets and the time it takes for Mars to line up with Earth and Jupiter. The goal is to determine the time it takes for all three planets to align in a "grand tour" alignment.
  • #1
Rennitbaby
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How long does it take for earth, mars, and Jupiter to line themselves up to a certain separation angle.
Background information: I am doing this project where we are trying to do a Hohmann transfer from Earth's stationary orbit to Mars and doing a flyby gravity assist at Mars and shoot for Jupiter. Now we are at the point where we have to find out the exact time it takes for all three planets to lineup at a perfect angle for this whole mission to be completed.

Knowns: -the original positions we need for all three planets to be.
- the time it takes for Mars to lineup with earth
- the time it takes for Mars to lineup with Jupiter
- the time it takes for Earth to lineup with Jupiter

Unknowns: the time it takes for all above scenarios to happen. For example, the grand tour alignment, however this time it is only 3 planets.
 
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  • #2
Welcome to PF;
Use the information you have on their orbits - expressed in angle units.
 
  • #3
Welcome to PF;
Use the information you have on their orbits - expressed in angle units.
 

1. How do planets align themselves at an angle?

The alignment of planets at an angle is a result of the gravitational forces between them. As the planets orbit around the sun, their positions relative to each other change, causing them to align at different angles at different times.

2. How often do planets align at an angle?

The frequency of planet alignment at an angle varies depending on the specific planets and their orbits. Some planets may align more frequently than others due to their orbital speeds and distances from each other.

3. Is there a specific time frame for planets to align at an angle?

The time frame for planets to align at an angle also varies based on the specific planets involved. Generally, the alignment can occur within a few weeks or months, but it can also take several years for certain planets to align at an angle.

4. Can we predict when planets will align at an angle?

Yes, scientists use mathematical calculations and computer simulations to predict when planets will align at an angle. However, these predictions may only be accurate within a certain margin of error.

5. What is the significance of planets aligning at an angle?

The alignment of planets at an angle can provide valuable insights into the gravitational relationships between them and can also be used to study and understand the dynamics of our solar system. It can also have cultural and historical significance in astrology and astronomy.

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