Eccentricity
In space and astronautical engineering, eccentricity refers to the measure of how much an orbit deviates from a perfect circle. It is a dimensionless parameter that describes the shape of an orbit. Eccentricity is defined as the ratio of the distance between the foci of the ellipse and the major axis of the ellipse. An orbit with an eccentricity of 0 is a perfect circle, while an orbit with an eccentricity of 1 is a parabolic escape trajectory. Eccentricity plays a crucial role in determining the behavior of objects in orbit, including their speed, altitude, and period. It is also an important factor in the design and operation of spacecraft, as it affects the amount of fuel required for orbital maneuvers and the stability of the spacecraft during re-entry.
Your Previous Searches
Random Picks
- Transducers: In space and astronautical engineering, transducers are devices that convert one form of energy into another. They are used to measure physical quantities such as temperature, pressure, acceleration, and strain, and convert them into electr ... Read More >>
- Spacecraft Assembly Facilities: Spacecraft Assembly Facilities are specialized buildings or areas where spacecraft are constructed, integrated, and tested. These facilities are designed to provide a clean and controlled environment to ensure that the spacecraft is not con ... Read More >>
- Signal Distortion: Signal distortion refers to any undesired alteration of the signal waveform during transmission, which can cause errors in the received signal. In space and astronautical engineering, signal distortion can occur due to various factors such ... Read More >>
Top News
This week on "Sunday Morning" (April 20)...
A look at the features for this week's broadcast of the Emmy-winning program, hosted by Jane Pauley....
News Source: CBS News on 2025-04-17
Scientists detect strongest hints yet of life on a distant planet...
Scientists have detected unique chemical patterns similar to those produced by the Earth's algae and seaweed — raising the possibility of the presence of a warm ocean, perhaps teeming with life, on ...
News Source: NBC News on 2025-04-17
Is there life on another planet? Scientists find the strongest evidence yet...
Near a planet far, far away astronomers have found traces of chemicals that on Earth are only produced by living beings....
News Source: Al Jazeera English on 2025-04-17
Scientists find strongest evidence yet of life on an alien planet | CNN...
In a potential landmark discovery, scientists using the James Webb Space Telescope have obtained what they call the strongest signs yet of possible life beyond our solar system, detecting in an alien ...
News Source: CNN on 2025-04-17
Katy Perry's trip to space wasn't inspirational. It was tone-deaf marketing....
Katy Perry indulged in a space tourism trip Monday, courtesy of Jeff Bezos' company. It's the latest in a long line of missteps for the singer....
News Source: Business Insider on 2025-04-14