engineering

Astrodynamics & Spacecraft Orbits

The mechanics of spaceflight — Hohmann transfer orbits, atmospheric orbital decay, Lagrange equilibrium points, planetary gravity assists, and precision orbital rendezvous maneuvers.

astrodynamicsorbital mechanicsHohmann transferLagrange pointsgravity assistspacecraftorbital rendezvous

Astrodynamics applies celestial mechanics and propulsion theory to the design of spacecraft trajectories. Every mission — from low-Earth orbit satellites to interplanetary probes — relies on precise calculations of delta-v budgets, transfer windows, and gravitational perturbations to reach its target with minimal fuel expenditure.

These simulations let you plan Hohmann transfer burns, model atmospheric drag on orbiting satellites, locate Lagrange equilibrium points, slingshot spacecraft past planets, and execute precision rendezvous maneuvers — all with real-time interactive controls and Keplerian orbital mechanics.

5 interactive simulations

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Gravity Assist & Planetary Slingshot

Simulate a gravity assist flyby — explore how approach velocity, periapsis distance, planet mass, and deflection angle determine the free delta-v gained from a planetary encounter

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Hohmann Transfer Orbit

Simulate a Hohmann transfer between two circular orbits — explore how orbital radii, central body mass, and burn timing determine delta-v and transfer time

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Lagrange Points & Three-Body Equilibrium

Simulate the five Lagrange points in a two-body gravitational system — explore how mass ratio, orbital radius, and perturbation velocity affect stability and halo orbits

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Orbital Decay & Atmospheric Drag

Simulate orbital decay from atmospheric drag — explore how altitude, ballistic coefficient, solar activity, and spacecraft area determine orbital lifetime and re-entry timeline

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Orbital Rendezvous & Docking

Simulate orbital rendezvous between two spacecraft — explore how phase angle, altitude difference, thrust timing, and relative velocity determine approach trajectory and docking conditions