1. What is Time Since Periapsis in Parabolic Orbit?

The Time since Periapsis in Parabolic Orbit is a measure of the duration that has passed since an object in orbit passed through its closest point to the central body, known as periapsis. This parameter is crucial in orbital mechanics for determining the position and velocity of objects in parabolic trajectories.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( t_p \) — Time since Periapsis in Parabolic Orbit (seconds)
• \( h_p \) — Angular Momentum of Parabolic Orbit (m²/s)
• \( M_p \) — Mean Anomaly in Parabolic Orbit (radians)
• \( [GM.Earth] \) — Earth's Geocentric Gravitational Constant (3.986004418 × 10¹⁴ m³/s²)

Explanation: This formula calculates the time elapsed since the orbiting object passed through periapsis based on its angular momentum and mean anomaly, using Earth's gravitational constant.

3. Importance of Time Since Periapsis Calculation

Details: Accurate calculation of time since periapsis is essential for orbital prediction, spacecraft navigation, and mission planning. It helps determine the current position of satellites and other space objects in parabolic orbits around Earth.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter angular momentum in m²/s and mean anomaly in radians. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator uses Earth's standard gravitational parameter for the calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a parabolic orbit?
A: A parabolic orbit is an open orbit where the object has exactly the escape velocity. The eccentricity equals 1, and the object will never return to the central body.

Q2: How is angular momentum different in parabolic orbits?
A: In parabolic orbits, angular momentum remains constant throughout the trajectory, similar to elliptical orbits, following the conservation of angular momentum principle.

Q3: Can this calculator be used for other celestial bodies?
A: This specific calculator uses Earth's gravitational constant. For other bodies, you would need to substitute the appropriate gravitational parameter for that celestial body.

Q4: What is the significance of mean anomaly in orbital calculations?
A: Mean anomaly represents the fraction of the orbital period that has elapsed since the orbiting body passed periapsis, expressed as an angle. It's crucial for determining position in orbit.

Q5: Are there limitations to this calculation?
A: This calculation assumes ideal parabolic orbit conditions and uses Earth's standard gravitational parameter. Real-world applications may require adjustments for perturbations and other orbital disturbances.