1. What is Orbital Velocity?

Definition: Orbital velocity is the speed needed for an object to maintain a stable orbit around Earth.

Purpose: This calculator determines the required velocity for satellites or other objects to orbit Earth at a given altitude.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( v \) — Orbital velocity (m/s)
• \( G \) — Gravitational constant (6.674 × 10⁻¹¹ m³/kg·s²)
• \( M_E \) — Mass of Earth (5.972 × 10²⁴ kg)
• \( r \) — Orbital radius from Earth's center (m)

Explanation: The formula balances gravitational force with centripetal force required for circular orbit.

3. Importance of Orbital Velocity

Details: Correct orbital velocity calculations are crucial for satellite deployment, space missions, and understanding orbital mechanics.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the orbital radius (distance from Earth's center) in meters. For altitude above Earth's surface, add Earth's radius (~6,371 km).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's Earth's radius for altitude calculations?
A: Earth's mean radius is approximately 6,371 km. Add this to altitude above surface for orbital radius.

Q2: What's the orbital velocity at low Earth orbit (LEO)?
A: For ~200 km altitude (6,571 km radius), velocity is about 7.8 km/s.

Q3: Does this work for other celestial bodies?
A: Yes, but replace M_E with the mass of the other body.

Q4: Why does velocity decrease with higher orbits?
A: Gravitational force weakens with distance, requiring less speed to maintain orbit.

Q5: What about elliptical orbits?
A: This formula gives circular orbit velocity. Elliptical orbits require more complex calculations.