Planet's Julian Date of a point in orbit

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on determining the Earth Date or Julian Date of significant orbital points, such as Periapsis and the Vernal Equinox, for planets in the solar system, excluding Earth. Users are directed to utilize the JPL Horizons tool (http://ssd.jpl.nasa.gov/horizons.cgi) to select a planet and adjust settings for heliocentric range and date range. The key method involves identifying the date when the distance from the sun transitions from decreasing to increasing, indicating the date of periapsis. An example provided states that Mars' next periapsis occurred on March 9, 2011.

PREREQUISITES
  • Familiarity with heliocentric orbital mechanics
  • Understanding of Julian Date calculations
  • Basic navigation of web-based astronomical tools
  • Knowledge of planetary positions in the solar system
NEXT STEPS
  • Explore the JPL Horizons tool for detailed planetary data
  • Research methods for calculating Julian Dates for celestial events
  • Learn about the significance of periapsis in orbital dynamics
  • Investigate the orbital characteristics of other planets in the solar system
USEFUL FOR

Astronomers, astrophysics students, and space enthusiasts interested in planetary orbits and celestial mechanics will benefit from this discussion.

Philosophaie
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I would like to know the Earth Date or Julian Date of the Periapsis, Vernal Equinox or any other point in the orbit for every planet in the solar system excluding Earth.
 
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Go here:

http://ssd.jpl.nasa.gov/horizons.cgi

Pick the palent you want.

change the options to give heliocentric range. Pick a date range and hit generate.

The chart will give the distance from the sun for the list of dates. Look for the date where the distance stops decreasing and starts increasing. this will be the date of periapis. (If it doesn't show up in the range of dates you used, try a new range of dates.) For instance, the next periapis for Mars falls on March 9, 2011.
 

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