Projectile lauched to the east of the earth has a reach R

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The reach R of a projectile launched to the east of the Earth refers to the measure of the arc or the geodesic curve between the launch and fall points. The trajectory of the projectile is not parabolic; instead, it follows a more complex path that must be accurately represented on the Earth's surface. There is a discussion about whether this trajectory matches exactly with the geodesical curve. With advancements in long-range ballistic munitions, it has become crucial to use an elliptical segment for plotting firing solutions to ensure accuracy. Understanding these dynamics is essential for precise targeting in modern ballistics.
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I am told that a projectile lauched to the east of the Earth has a reach R. Is this the measure of the arc or of the chord joining the point of lauch and the point of fall ?
 
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quasar987 said:
I am told that a projectile lauched to the east of the Earth has a reach R. Is this the measure of the arc or of the chord joining the point of lauch and the point of fall ?

It's the measure of the arc,or if u prefer fancy words,the lengh of the geodesic curve pasing through the 2 points...

However,the projectile's trajectory is not parabolic,as i hope you know...The projection of this curve onto the surface of the Earth should match the geodesical curve.

Daniel.
 
dextercioby said:
It's the measure of the arc,or if u prefer fancy words,the lengh of the geodesic curve pasing through the 2 points...

However,the projectile's trajectory is not parabolic,as i hope you know...The projection of this curve onto the surface of the Earth should match the geodesical curve.

Daniel.

Does it match exactly? I've heard that with the advent of truly long-range (long-range by modern standards) ballistic munitions, it became important to replace the classic image of the parabolic trajectory, and use the ellipse-segment to plot the firing solution, otherwise you miss the target. Does anyone know if that's true?
 

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