Problems with an Orbit: Eccentricity, Inclination, and Other Peculiarities

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the peculiarities of an orbit characterized by a semimajor axis of 5740 km, an eccentricity of 0.1, and an inclination of 53 degrees. The user struggles with understanding the implications of these parameters, particularly how the radius of the orbit relates to the Earth's radius of 6378 km. It is established that in a near-circular orbit, the radius should approximate the semimajor axis, not double it. Calculating the apogee and perigee using the provided equations is essential for a comprehensive understanding of the orbit's characteristics.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of orbital mechanics concepts such as semimajor axis and eccentricity.
  • Familiarity with the equations for calculating apogee and perigee.
  • Basic knowledge of spherical geometry related to Earth's radius.
  • Ability to interpret orbital parameters and their physical implications.
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the apogee and perigee using the formulas involving semimajor axis and eccentricity.
  • Study the effects of inclination on orbital dynamics.
  • Explore the significance of eccentricity in determining orbit shape.
  • Learn about the relationship between orbital radius and Earth's radius in practical scenarios.
USEFUL FOR

Astronomy students, aerospace engineers, and anyone interested in understanding orbital mechanics and the characteristics of satellite orbits.

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Problems with an Orbit...

Homework Statement



what is peculiar about the orbit"

Semimajor axis = 5740km
Eccentricity = 0.1
Inclination = 53
Right ascension of the ascending node = 345
Argument of perigee = 270
True anomaly = 183

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



help! I'm lost... I have several problems for Orbital Mechanics...my math is terrible...I need help with an example of how I can solve this problem...I was given the data and the question I know the Earth's radius is 6378km, the radius of this orbit is 2x the semimajor axis, so that's 11,480, the eccentricity is close to 0 so the orbit is nealry circular, then the rest I am lost on...
 
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In a near-circular orbit, the radius is near the semi-major axis, not 2 times the semi-major axis. Knowing that, and the radius of Earth, it should be pretty obvious what is weird about this orbit. If not, you may want to calculate the apogee and perigee of the orbit (look in your references for equations that relates the two with the semi-major axis and the eccentricity) and compare those with the radius of Earth.
 

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