About Orbital Distance Calculator (Formula)
The Orbital Distance Calculator is a useful tool in astronomy and space science to determine the average distance between a celestial body (e.g., a planet) and the sun in its elliptical orbit. The formula for calculating orbital distance is based on Kepler’s third law of planetary motion:
Orbital Distance (a) = (Period of Revolution (T)² × Gravitational Constant (G) × Solar Mass (M)) / (4π²)
Where:
- Orbital Distance (a) represents the average distance from the sun to the celestial body, typically measured in astronomical units (AU) or meters (m).
- Period of Revolution (T) is the time it takes for the celestial body to complete one full orbit around the sun, typically measured in years (yr) or seconds (s).
- Gravitational Constant (G) is a fundamental constant in physics, approximately equal to 6.674 × 10⁻¹¹ m³ kg⁻¹ s⁻².
- Solar Mass (M) is the mass of the sun, approximately equal to 1.989 × 10³⁰ kilograms (kg).
- 4π² is a mathematical constant.
This formula allows astronomers and scientists to calculate the average distance of a celestial body from the sun based on the time it takes to complete one orbit, the gravitational constant, and the mass of the sun. It helps characterize the geometry and dynamics of celestial orbits.
The Orbital Distance Calculator is crucial for astronomers and space scientists studying celestial bodies and their movements within the solar system, providing insights into the structure and behavior of planetary orbits.