Orbital Mechanics
Physics
Master the mathematics of orbital motion — from Kepler's laws and circular orbits to Hohmann transfers, escape velocity, and gravitational potential energy. Learn how Newton's law of gravitation, conic sections, and energy conservation govern the trajectories of satellites, planets, and spacecraft.
Learning Objectives
- Apply Newton's law of universal gravitation to orbital problems
- Derive and use circular orbit velocity, period, and altitude relationships
- State and apply Kepler's three laws of planetary motion
- Calculate escape velocity and gravitational potential energy
- Design Hohmann transfer orbits and compute delta-v requirements
- Analyze orbital energy and the vis-viva equation for elliptical orbits
Lessons
1
Newton's Law of Gravitation and Gravitational Fields
25 min
2
Circular Orbits — Velocity, Period, and Altitude
25 min
3
Kepler's Laws of Planetary Motion
25 min
4
Escape Velocity and Gravitational Potential Energy
25 min
5
Hohmann Transfer Orbits and Delta-V
25 min
6
The Vis-Viva Equation and Orbital Energy
25 min
7
Placement Test Practice — Orbital Mechanics
25 min
Quick Practice
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Key Concept Flashcards
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