Gravitational perturbations are disturbances in the gravitational field of a celestial body that affect the motion of other objects in its vicinity. These perturbations can be caused by other celestial bodies, such as the Moon or other planets, and can have a significant impact on the orbit of a spacecraft. Continue Reading
What are the differences between geostationary, geosynchronous, and Molniya orbits, and what types of applications are each best suited for
Orbits around the Earth are an important concept for space science, communication, and weather forecasting. There are different types of orbits, each of which has a specific set of characteristics and applications. Three types of Earth orbits that are often discussed are geostationary, geosynchronous, and Molniya orbits. In this article, Continue Reading
What is a Hohmann transfer orbit, and how is it used to efficiently transfer a spacecraft from one circular orbit to another
The Hohmann transfer orbit is a commonly used orbital maneuver in spaceflight that enables spacecraft to efficiently transfer from one circular orbit to another. It was first proposed by German engineer Walter Hohmann in 1925, and since then, it has been widely used in space missions, including interplanetary travels. In Continue Reading
How do atmospheric drag and solar radiation pressure affect the orbit of a spacecraft, and what techniques can be used to mitigate their effects
Spacecraft operate in an environment where they are subject to various forces that can affect their orbit. Two of the most significant forces are atmospheric drag and solar radiation pressure. These forces can cause a spacecraft’s orbit to deteriorate over time, which can pose a significant risk to the mission’s Continue Reading