Calculating Delta V for Orbit Change

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the Delta V required for a satellite to change from an inclined orbit of 66° at 260.0 km altitude to a polar orbit at the same altitude. The participants suggest using the formula DeltaV1 = |V_transfer at orbit 1 - V_orbit 1| and DeltaV2 = |V_transfer at orbit 2 - V_orbit 2| to determine the necessary velocity changes. However, they emphasize the complexity of orbital mechanics, noting that velocity is not constant in orbit and that a deliberate velocity change is essential to transition between orbits effectively.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of orbital mechanics
  • Familiarity with Delta V calculations
  • Knowledge of polar and inclined orbits
  • Basic principles of satellite dynamics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research Delta V calculations for orbital transfers
  • Study the mechanics of inclined versus polar orbits
  • Learn about the Hohmann transfer orbit method
  • Explore simulation tools for satellite trajectory analysis
USEFUL FOR

Aerospace engineers, satellite mission planners, and students studying orbital mechanics will benefit from this discussion, particularly those focused on Delta V calculations and orbit changes.

starchaser2020
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A satellite changes its orbit inclined 66° at 260.0 km altitude to a polar orbit at the same altitude. What Delta V was required?

... I am stuck.

do I figure it out using:

DeltaV1 = |V_transfer at orbit 1 - V_orbit 1|
and
DeltaV2 = |V_transfer at orbit 2 - V_orbit 2|

or is there another way?

Thank you in advance!
 
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starchaser2020 said:
|V_transfer at orbit 1 - V_orbit 1|
I'm not sure what two velocities those variables represent. One that thing that may be confusing is that while in an orbit there is no single velocity that goes with it - the velocity keeps changing.
Think of it this way: in order to switch from one orbit to the other, you have to get to a point on the target orbit. How is that going to happen? Will it require a deliberate velocity change? When that has happened, what velocity change is needed to complete the process?
 

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