Orbital velocity of a craft at 4km above the Moon's surface
- Context: Undergrad
- Thread starter Fred Bobo
- Start date
Click For Summary
Discussion Overview
The discussion centers on calculating the orbital velocity of a spacecraft at an altitude of 4 km above the Moon's surface. It involves theoretical considerations of orbital mechanics and gravitational forces.
Discussion Character
- Technical explanation
- Mathematical reasoning
- Homework-related
Main Points Raised
- One participant proposes using the formula for circular orbital velocity, ##\sqrt{\frac{GM}{r}}##, where ##G## is the gravitational constant, ##M## is the mass of the Moon, and ##r## is the distance from the Moon's center.
- Another participant suggests using the escape velocity of the Moon divided by ##\sqrt{2}## as an alternative method for estimating the orbital velocity.
- A participant expresses confusion regarding which value of the gravitational constant to use, noting variations found online.
- Another participant recommends using the SI unit value of ##6.674*10^{-11}## for ##G##, advising to use mass in kilograms and distance in meters for consistency.
- A later reply warns that low lunar orbits may not be circular due to the presence of lunar mascons, which can affect orbital dynamics.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants generally agree on the formula for calculating orbital velocity, but there is uncertainty regarding the appropriate value of the gravitational constant and the implications of lunar mascons on orbital shape.
Contextual Notes
The discussion highlights potential limitations in precision due to variations in the gravitational constant and the effects of lunar mascons on low orbits.
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