Physics 12 · Orbital Motion Studio

Physics model and safety

For central gravitational parameter μ=GM and center-to-center distance r=R+h, gravitational acceleration is μ/r² and force on a small test body is mμ/r². For a circular two-body orbit, v=√(μ/r), T=2π√(r³/μ); velocity points tangent while acceleration points inward. Constants: Earth μ=3.986004418×10¹⁴ m³/s², radius 6371 km; Moon μ=4.9048695×10¹² m³/s², radius 1737.4 km.

1. Predict, set and calculate

My prediction before changing the model

Central body

Altitude above reference surface 400 km

Satellite mass 500 kg

Position on circular orbit 0°

Import JSON

2. Visualize forces and motion

Schematic only. Vector arrows are directional, not drawn to physical scale. The mathematical readout provides the exact values for accessible use.

3. Compare altitude and the calculated result

Calculated circular orbits at selected altitudes (synthetic)
Altitude (km)	r (km)	g (m/s²)	v (km/s)	T (min)

4. Portfolio notebook

Saved model results for this device
#	Body	Altitude (km)	Mass (kg)	g (m/s²)	Period (min)

Claim, two numerical pieces of evidence, equations, assumptions and next investigation

Download orbital synthetic dataset

5. Seven-round calculation challenge

Seven distinct challenges randomized from eleven Earth/Moon cases. Feedback identifies the formula and explains center-to-center distance.

Start a new game.

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