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Is the orbit of a satellite circular?
All orbits are elliptical, which means they are an ellipse, similar to an oval. For the planets, the orbits are almost circular. Satellites that orbit Earth, including the moon, do not always stay the same distance from Earth. Sometimes they are closer, and at other times they are farther away.
Is the path of a satellite an ellipse?
Satellite Communications In a HEO constellation, the satellites orbit the earth traversing an elliptical path rather than a circular one. In such an orbit, the satellite velocity with respect to the earth is constantly changing, reaching a maximum at perigee and a minimum at apogee.
Do all satellites follow circular paths?
Satellites are falling projectiles. All satellites follow circular paths. The orbital velocity required of a satellite is dependent upon the mass of the satellite; a more massive satellite would require a greater orbital speed. Satellites travel faster along their orbital path when they are closest to the earth.
What is the elongated path?
Definition of elongation 1 : the angular distance in the sky between a celestial body and another around which it revolves or between a celestial body and a particular point (such as the point where its path intersects the horizon) the elongation of Venus from the Sun.
What direction is acceleration in circular motion?
An object undergoing uniform circular motion is moving with a constant speed. Nonetheless, it is accelerating due to its change in direction. The direction of the acceleration is inwards.
What causes circular motion around the central body of a satellite?
For instance as your car heads east and and slam on your brakes, the force on the car is westward; only the acceleration would be westward. And for satellites, the direction of motion is tangential and the force is inward; only the acceleration is inward and this cause the circular motion around the central body.
What is the speed of a satellite in orbit around Earth?
If shot with a speed greater than 8000 m/s, it would orbit the earth in an elliptical path. The motion of an orbiting satellite can be described by the same motion characteristics as any object in circular motion. The velocity of the satellite would be directed tangent to the circle at every point along its path.
What is the fundamental principle of a satellite?
The fundamental principle to be understood concerning satellites is that a satellite is a projectile. That is to say, a satellite is an object upon which the only force is gravity. Once launched into orbit, the only force governing the motion of a satellite is the force of gravity.
What is a circular orbit?
Circular orbits are the simplest kinds of orbits in celestial mechanics, where an orbiting body remains at constant radius as it travels around a gravitating mass.