Proof of satellite revolve around earth in circular path

In summary, satellites are equipped with thrusters and monitored by ground-based tracking systems to maintain a circular orbit around the Earth. This is supported by mathematical models and the use of Newton's laws of motion. While satellites can have non-circular orbits, the force of gravity and other factors such as atmospheric drag and celestial bodies help keep them in a circular path.
  • #1
Steven7
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Hi guys. I do not know artificial satellite revolve around Earth in a circular path or an ellipse path but do we have physics and mathematical proof that artificial satellite revolve around Earth in circular/ellipse path?
 
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  • #2
Steven7 said:
do we have physics and mathematical proof that artificial satellite revolve around Earth in circular/ellipse path?

Yes, it's the exact same as the proof given hundreds of years ago by Newton that the planets orbit the sun in ellipses (note, a circle is just a special case of an ellipse).
 

1. How do we know that satellites revolve around the Earth in a circular path?

Satellites are equipped with instruments called thrusters that allow them to maintain a stable orbit around the Earth. These thrusters are precisely calibrated to keep the satellite at a specific distance and speed from the Earth, resulting in a circular path. Additionally, scientists use ground-based tracking systems to monitor the position and movement of satellites, providing further evidence of their circular orbit.

2. What evidence supports the idea of satellites orbiting in a circular path?

In addition to the use of thrusters and ground-based tracking systems, scientists also use mathematical models and equations to predict the movement of satellites in orbit. These models are based on Newton's laws of motion and have been consistently accurate in predicting the circular path of satellites around the Earth.

3. Can satellites orbit around the Earth in a non-circular path?

Yes, satellites can orbit around the Earth in a non-circular path, but this is less common. Some satellites, such as those with a polar orbit, may have an elliptical or oval-shaped path. However, even in these cases, the satellite's orbit is still centered around the Earth and can be considered a circular path in a broader sense.

4. What keeps satellites in a circular orbit around the Earth?

The force of gravity is what keeps satellites in orbit around the Earth. This force is constantly pulling the satellite towards the Earth, but the satellite's velocity and centripetal force from its thrusters counteract this pull, resulting in a stable circular orbit. The gravitational pull of the Earth also helps to maintain the circular path of the satellite.

5. Are there any other factors that can affect the circular path of satellites around the Earth?

Yes, there are other factors that can affect the circular path of satellites around the Earth. These include atmospheric drag, solar radiation pressure, and the gravitational pull of other celestial bodies such as the Moon and the Sun. Scientists carefully monitor and account for these factors when launching and maintaining satellites in orbit to ensure their circular path remains stable.

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