Orbiting around an object of variable mass

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on the implications of a satellite orbiting an object that experiences sudden changes in mass. In Newtonian gravity, adjusting the mass (M) allows for recalculating the satellite's trajectory using its last known position and velocity. However, in the framework of relativity, the concept of "suddenly changing mass" is not feasible, as it violates the principles of physical laws. The conversation highlights the limitations of theoretical scenarios that contradict established physics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newtonian gravity principles
  • Familiarity with basic orbital mechanics
  • Knowledge of general relativity concepts
  • Basic grasp of gravitational forces and their effects on motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical modeling of orbital mechanics in Newtonian physics
  • Explore the implications of mass-energy equivalence in general relativity
  • Study the effects of gravitational perturbations on satellite trajectories
  • Investigate scenarios involving variable mass systems in astrophysics
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Astronomers, physicists, aerospace engineers, and students of physics interested in orbital dynamics and the effects of mass changes on gravitational interactions.

awygle
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I'm curious - what would happen if a satellite was in orbit around an object which suddenly lost a large piece of its mass, or gained a large amount of mass? Of course this seems extremely unlikely to occur in nature, but I suppose similar reactions could be produced by using engines to counter the gravitational pull.
 
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The problem with "what would happen if XXX ?" questions, where XXX violates physical laws, is that any answer is possible of course. You cannot use the system of laws of nature anymore to consider what would happen if something is defined from the start to violate them.

Now, in purely Newtonian gravity, there's no problem: just change the value of M, and take the last values of position and velocity as the new initial values of the new trajectory. The diminished pull (because the new value of M is smaller) can be indeed set equivalent to the effect of any other force in the opposite direction, yes.

In relativity, you can't "suddenly change mass".
 

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