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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?
As you suggested in post #3, it's to do with the way the Earth rotates.Ignis Radiis said:no, I meant like, when they launch satellites or rovers onto other planets, they usually launch it east.
Thanks! I get it now...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?
Yes. But before they head off into the outer solar system, where do they go? Where do ALL vessels launched from Earth go first?Ignis Radiis said:no, I meant like, when they launch satellites or rovers onto other planets, they usually launch it east.
Tooooo the atmosphere?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?
To orbit.Ignis Radiis said:Tooooo the atmosphere?
right...DaveC426913 said:To orbit.
And what do you need a lot of in order to stay in orbit?Ignis Radiis said:right...
Gravity?DaveC426913 said:And what do you need a lot of in order to stay in orbit?
Wouldn't gravity would do the opposite of keeping them in orbit?Ignis Radiis said:Gravity?
Their free fall?DaveC426913 said:Wouldn't gravity would do the opposite of keeping them in orbit?
What keeps them up there despite gravity?
What is free fall? What is counteracting gravity?Ignis Radiis said:Their free fall?
I'm lost...DaveC426913 said:What is free fall? What is counteracting gravity?
Look at haruspex' post #9 for a hint.
Momentum? Specifically Angular Momentum?DaveC426913 said:What is free fall? What is counteracting gravity?
Look at haruspex' post #9 for a hint.
Simply: speed. You need to be going several miles per second to stay in orbit.Ignis Radiis said:Momentum? Specifically Angular Momentum?
The primary reason for launching spacecraft towards the East is to take advantage of the Earth's rotation. The Earth rotates from west to east, which means that the surface of the Earth is moving at a faster speed towards the east. This extra speed helps the spacecraft to achieve a higher velocity and reach its desired orbit more efficiently.
Yes, the Earth's rotation has a significant impact on the trajectory of the spacecraft. The Earth's rotation causes the spacecraft to gain an extra horizontal velocity, which helps in reaching a higher orbit. It also reduces the amount of fuel needed for the spacecraft to achieve its desired orbit.
The Earth's atmosphere plays a crucial role in launching spacecraft towards the East. The Earth's rotation causes the atmosphere to rotate along with it, creating a beneficial effect known as the "oceanic effect." This effect helps the spacecraft to gain additional speed and reduce the amount of fuel needed for the launch.
Yes, there are several other benefits of launching spacecraft towards the East. One of the significant advantages is that it allows for easier access to the International Space Station (ISS). Launching towards the East also enables spacecraft to take advantage of gravitational assists from the Moon and other planets, reducing travel time and fuel consumption.
Launching towards the West goes against the Earth's rotation, which would require the spacecraft to fight against the Earth's movement. This would result in a slower launch, requiring more fuel and time to reach the desired orbit. Therefore, launching towards the West is not a feasible option for NASA.