Space Part 1 -- Why does NASA launch spacecraft toward the East?

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SUMMARY

NASA launches spacecraft toward the east primarily due to the Earth's rotation, which provides a significant velocity boost, thereby saving fuel. This eastward trajectory allows spacecraft to take advantage of the Earth's rotational speed of approximately 1,000 mph. The discussion emphasizes that launching in this direction is crucial for achieving the necessary speed to maintain orbit, counteracting gravitational forces through angular momentum. Understanding these principles is essential for comprehending the mechanics of space launches.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Earth's rotational dynamics
  • Basic principles of orbital mechanics
  • Knowledge of angular momentum
  • Familiarity with spacecraft launch trajectories
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the physics of orbital mechanics
  • Learn about the effects of Earth's rotation on launch trajectories
  • Study the concept of angular momentum in space travel
  • Explore the engineering behind fuel efficiency in rocket launches
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Aerospace engineers, physics students, educators in space science, and anyone interested in the mechanics of spacecraft launches will benefit from this discussion.

Ignis Radiis
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Homework Statement



Okay...So why does NASA launch in the east. Is there an advantage in east from west?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

 
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Since this is your homework, what do you think?
 
I think its because that is the way the Earth rotates to, maybe to save fuel?
 
Go on...
 
As Dave said, follow this train of thought. HOW does it save fuel?
 
Because, the shuttle or whatever will be heading int the east to west direction making it easier to get to the locations faster?
 
What is the shuttles destination though? Not other places on earth. So...
 
no, I meant like, when they launch satellites or rovers onto other planets, they usually launch it east.
 
Ignis Radiis said:
no, I meant like, when they launch satellites or rovers onto other planets, they usually launch it east.
As you suggested in post #3, it's to do with the way the Earth rotates.
When launching an object into space, what is the main challenge?
If you are on a train going at 90kph and throw a stone forwards at 30kph relative to you, how fast is the stone going?
 
  • #10
haruspex said:
As you suggested in post #3, it's to do with the way the Earth rotates.
When launching an object into space, what is the main challenge?
If you are on a train going at 90kph and throw a stone forwards at 30kph relative to you, how fast is the stone going?
Thanks! I get it now...
 
  • #11
Ignis Radiis said:
no, I meant like, when they launch satellites or rovers onto other planets, they usually launch it east.
Yes. But before they head off into the outer solar system, where do they go? Where do ALL vessels launched from Earth go first?
 
  • #12
DaveC426913 said:
Yes. But before they head off into the outer solar system, where do they go? Where do ALL vessels launched from Earth go first?
Tooooo the atmosphere?
 
  • #13
Ignis Radiis said:
Tooooo the atmosphere?
To orbit.
 
  • #14
DaveC426913 said:
To orbit.
right...
 
  • #15
Ignis Radiis said:
right...
And what do you need a lot of in order to stay in orbit?
 
  • #16
DaveC426913 said:
And what do you need a lot of in order to stay in orbit?
Gravity?
 
  • #17
Ignis Radiis said:
Gravity?
Wouldn't gravity would do the opposite of keeping them in orbit?

What keeps them up there despite gravity?
 
  • #18
DaveC426913 said:
Wouldn't gravity would do the opposite of keeping them in orbit?

What keeps them up there despite gravity?
Their free fall?
 
  • #19
Ignis Radiis said:
Their free fall?
What is free fall? What is counteracting gravity?

Look at haruspex' post #9 for a hint.
 
  • #20
DaveC426913 said:
What is free fall? What is counteracting gravity?

Look at haruspex' post #9 for a hint.
I'm lost...
 
  • #21
DaveC426913 said:
What is free fall? What is counteracting gravity?

Look at haruspex' post #9 for a hint.
Momentum? Specifically Angular Momentum?
 
  • #22
Ignis Radiis said:
Momentum? Specifically Angular Momentum?
Simply: speed. You need to be going several miles per second to stay in orbit.

So, if the Earth (and thus your spaceship on its launchpad) is already turning at a thousand mph...
 

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