Is the weight of a small satellite in its orbit zero?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The weight of a small satellite in orbit is not zero; rather, it experiences microgravity conditions that create the sensation of weightlessness. This phenomenon occurs due to the satellite's continuous free fall towards Earth while maintaining a horizontal velocity, resulting in a state of perpetual free fall. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding gravitational forces and the distinction between weight and apparent weight in orbital mechanics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of gravitational forces and their effects on objects in motion
  • Basic knowledge of orbital mechanics and satellite dynamics
  • Familiarity with the concept of weight versus mass
  • Awareness of the principles of free fall and microgravity
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of orbital mechanics and how they apply to satellite motion
  • Study the effects of microgravity on objects in orbit
  • Learn about the differences between weight and mass in physics
  • Explore the concept of free fall and its implications for satellites
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, aerospace engineers, and anyone interested in understanding satellite dynamics and the effects of gravity in space.

shk
Messages
78
Reaction score
8
Is the weight of a small satellite in its orbit zero?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
shk said:
Is the weight of a small satellite in its orbit zero?
How is weight measured? And what would the result be for a satellite?
 
I'm not going to give a sarky answer to a zero research effort question here, so I'll just report the labeling.
 
m4r35n357 said:
so I'll just report the labeling.
I have changed it from A to B.
 

Similar threads

Undergrad Satellite mechanics: linear and rotational momentum
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
2K
Graduate Accelerating a satellite in a circular orbit
  • · Replies 24 ·
Replies
24
Views
3K
Undergrad Help in calculating the orbiting height of a satellite?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
High School The satellite and its work done
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
High School What gives satellites their tangential velocity?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Undergrad The work done by an artificial satellite
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
High School The Effect of Linear and Rotational Motion on Measured Weight
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
777
Graduate Calculating Rocket Energy in Satellite Orbit Problem
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
4K
Undergrad Why is a satellite's orbit period independent of its mass?
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
High School Can Satellites Orbit Within Earth's Atmosphere and How Close Can They Get?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K