Using the path equation to determine the path of a satellite

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the eccentricity of a satellite's new orbit after a head-on collision that reduces its speed from \(v_0\) to \(kv_0\), where \(0 < k < 1\). The satellite is initially in a circular orbit at a distance \(h\) above Earth's surface, governed by an attractive inverse square force. The key equations involve angular momentum before and after the collision, with the initial angular momentum \(L\) defined as \(L = Rv_0\) and the post-collision angular momentum \(L' = kRv_0\). The participants seek clarification on the correct expression for \(L'\) and how to proceed with the calculations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of orbital mechanics and satellite motion
  • Familiarity with angular momentum concepts in physics
  • Knowledge of inverse square law forces
  • Basic proficiency in using LaTeX for mathematical expressions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of eccentricity in orbital mechanics
  • Learn about the conservation of angular momentum in collisions
  • Explore the effects of speed changes on satellite orbits
  • Review the application of the inverse square law in gravitational contexts
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace engineers, physics students, and anyone interested in satellite dynamics and orbital mechanics will benefit from this discussion.

HMPARTICLE
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A satellite is in a circular orbit a distance $h$ above the surface of the Earth with speed $v_0$. It suffers a head-on collision with some debris which reduces its speed to $kv_0$, where $k$ is a constant in the range $0<k<1$, but does not change its direction. Calculate the eccentricity of the new orbit.We assume that the satellite is being acted on by an attractive inverse square force.

Now before the collision we have
$$\frac{d^2u}{d\theta^2}+u=\frac{\gamma}{L^2}\implies\frac{1}{R} = \frac{\gamma}{R^2 v_0^2} \implies \gamma = Rv_0^2$$

After the collision, $\gamma$ is unchanged, but the angular momentum is.
We shall denote that by $L'$. how do I progress from here? Because I don't know how the magnitude of the angular component of the velocity has changed. What is L'?

Would it be correct to say after the collision $L' = kRv_0$? I feel this is not correct.

I am unsure how to use inline latex on here.
 
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HMPARTICLE said:
A satellite is in a circular orbit a distance ##h## above the surface of the Earth with speed ##v_0##. It suffers a head-on collision with some debris which reduces its speed to ##kv_0##, where ##k## is a constant in the range ##0<k<1##, but does not change its direction. Calculate the eccentricity of the new orbit.We assume that the satellite is being acted on by an attractive inverse square force.

Now before the collision we have
$$\frac{d^2u}{d\theta^2}+u=\frac{\gamma}{L^2}\implies\frac{1}{R} = \frac{\gamma}{R^2 v_0^2} \implies \gamma = Rv_0^2$$

After the collision, ##\gamma## is unchanged, but the angular momentum is.
We shall denote that by ##L'##. how do I progress from here? Because I don't know how the magnitude of the angular component of the velocity has changed. What is L'?

Would it be correct to say after the collision ##L' = kRv_0##? I feel this is not correct.

I am unsure how to use inline latex on here.

To use inline Latex, put '##' before and after your expressions.

You can always check formatting before you post by hitting the Preview button located next to the Post Reply.
 

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