Space Trajectory Calculator
Visualize spacecraft trajectories and orbital mechanics with this interactive tool
This interactive tool helps you understand basic orbital mechanics by visualizing spacecraft trajectories around different celestial bodies. Adjust parameters like velocity, launch angle, and celestial body properties to see how they affect orbital paths.
Parameter Controls
Celestial Body Properties
Trajectory Visualization
Trajectory Type:
Not calculated
Points Calculated:
0
Escape Velocity:
-
Circular Orbit Velocity:
-
Trajectory Guidelines
- Suborbital: Velocity too low, spacecraft will fall back to the surface
- Circular Orbit: Velocity ≈ √(GM/r), spacecraft orbits at constant altitude
- Elliptical Orbit: Between circular and escape velocity, spacecraft orbits in an ellipse
- Escape Trajectory: Velocity ≥ √(2GM/r), spacecraft escapes gravitational pull
Using the Space Trajectory Calculator
This tool provides a simplified demonstration of orbital mechanics for educational purposes. Here are some tips for using it effectively:
- Select a preset or customize the celestial body properties to simulate trajectories around different objects like Earth, the Moon, or Mars.
- Adjust the initial velocity to see how it affects the trajectory. Higher velocities result in larger orbits or escape trajectories.
- Experiment with launch angles to create different orbital shapes. A 0° angle (straight up) followed by a turn to horizontal creates a circular orbit, while angles create elliptical orbits.
- Compare the calculated velocities with your input velocity to understand if your spacecraft will orbit or escape.
- Press "Calculate Trajectory" to visualize the path your spacecraft will take with the given parameters.
Educational Concepts Demonstrated:
- Relationship between velocity and orbital trajectory
- Effect of celestial body mass and radius on orbital mechanics
- Visualization of different orbit types (circular, elliptical, parabolic, hyperbolic)
- Practical application of Kepler's laws and Newton's law of universal gravitation
- Fundamentals of space navigation planning
Note: This simulation uses simplified physics models and does not account for factors like atmospheric drag, the influence of other celestial bodies, or relativistic effects. For educational purposes only.