Missile Landing Radius Problem (Orbital mechanics)

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SUMMARY

The Missile Landing Radius Problem involves calculating the maximum initial velocity of a missile at height h above Earth to ensure it lands within a radius r. The discussion emphasizes the use of orbital mechanics equations, particularly the relationship between momentum and the semi-latus rectum. The key equations referenced include momentum = radius at apoapsis * velocity at apoapsis and semi-latus rectum = momentum^2/gravitational constant. The challenge lies in determining the appropriate radius at apoapsis, which must be greater than h and less than h + R_earth.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of orbital mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with gravitational equations, specifically \(\frac{GM}{r^2}\)
  • Knowledge of momentum and its application in physics
  • Basic concepts of parabolic trajectories
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and application of the semi-latus rectum in orbital mechanics
  • Explore the implications of varying initial heights on missile trajectories
  • Learn about the calculations involved in determining apoapsis and periapsis in projectile motion
  • Investigate the effects of gravitational constants on trajectory predictions
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in physics, aerospace engineering, and anyone interested in the mathematical modeling of projectile motion and orbital mechanics.

springBreeze
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Homework Statement


At time t=0, there is a missile at a height h directly above the perfectly round Earth moving tangential to the surface of Earth. What must be the maximum velocity of the missile at t=0 if it must land within radius r on Earth directly below its initial position by the time it strikes the ground?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I have tried using some orbital mechanics equations by visualizing the trajectory of the missile as a parabola. At t=0, the object is at apoapsis and at final time (when it strikes the ground), it's at periapsis. I tried equations such as

momentum = radius at apoapsis * velocity at apoapsis
semi-latus rectum = momentum^2/gravitational constant

in order to find the velocity at apoapsis but I have no idea what the radius at apoapsis should be. The apoapsis radius must be greater than h and less than h+R_earth but other than that, I have no clue on how to find it.
 
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If you replace g by [tex]\frac{GM}{r^2}[/tex], things become much easier.
 

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