Orbital Mechanics

Kinematics & Dynamics

This module discusses the physics of orbital mechanics as described by Kepler’s laws and Newton’s law of gravitation. It introduces angular momentum, central forces, the trajectory and period of particles in elliptical orbits, and the properties of ellipses. The associated equations are presented, and an example in MapleSim as well as an interactive plot concerning the eccentricity of orbits is included to reinforce understanding.

Keywords & Topics:
orbit, dynamics, ellipse, kepler, gravity, gravitation, newton, angular momentum, central forces, trajectory, period, eccentricity
Main Topic: Kinematics & Dynamics

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Maple Document
Explore the theory with textbook descriptions, live math, and interactive components. If you don’t have Maple, you can download the free Maple Player.

Preview the Maple Document

MapleSim Models
Reinforce the concepts and visualize the physical behaviours of the system.

Preview - Orbital Satellite

Assessment Questions
Assess student understanding with a set of questions that you can use directly within Möbius Assessment, available from the Maplesoft spin-off company DigitalEd.

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