Specific Energy Of Circular Orbit Calculator

Formula Used:

\[ \varepsilon = -\frac{(GM_{Earth})^2}{2 \times h_c^2} \]

Specific Energy of Orbit:

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is Specific Energy of Circular Orbit?

The Specific Energy of Circular Orbit represents the total orbital energy per unit mass of an object in a circular orbit around Earth. It is the sum of kinetic energy and gravitational potential energy, expressed per unit mass of the orbiting body.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ \varepsilon = -\frac{(GM_{Earth})^2}{2 \times h_c^2} \]

Where:

\( \varepsilon \) — Specific Energy of Orbit (J/kg)
\( GM_{Earth} \) — Earth's Geocentric Gravitational Constant (3.986004418 × 10¹⁴ m³/s²)
\( h_c \) — Angular Momentum of Circular Orbit (m²/s)

Explanation: This formula calculates the specific orbital energy for a circular orbit using Earth's gravitational parameter and the angular momentum of the orbit.

3. Importance of Specific Energy Calculation

Details: Calculating specific orbital energy is crucial for orbital mechanics, satellite deployment, and space mission planning. It helps determine the energy requirements for orbital maneuvers and stability analysis.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the angular momentum of the circular orbit in m²/s. The value must be positive and greater than zero for valid calculations.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does negative specific energy indicate?
A: Negative specific energy indicates a bound orbit, meaning the object is gravitationally bound to Earth and will remain in orbit.

Q2: How is angular momentum related to orbital energy?
A: Angular momentum and specific energy are inversely related in circular orbits - higher angular momentum results in less negative (higher) specific energy.

Q3: What are typical values for specific orbital energy?
A: For low Earth orbit, specific energy typically ranges from -30 to -20 MJ/kg, while geostationary orbit has around -4.7 MJ/kg.

Q4: Can this formula be used for elliptical orbits?
A: This specific formula is derived for circular orbits. Elliptical orbits require a different approach using semi-major axis.

Q5: Why is Earth's GM constant used?
A: The GM product (gravitational parameter) is more precise than using G and M separately, and is the standard parameter used in orbital calculations.