A Space Mission Problem

The GPS Mission: Phase II


The Lab

1. The satellite has reached the outer orbit at 20,200 km above the surface of the Earth.
2. Will it go into a circular orbit at that altitude, or does it need a correction? 		1. The satellite is in an elliptical orbit. It will return to the lower elevation unless corrected.
2. To calculate the correct speed for the circular high orbit, set the expression for the centripetal force in the circular orbit equal to the gravitational pull of the Earth.
3. Compute the kinetic energy the satellite would have if it moved at that speed.
4. To get the energy boost the satellite needs, subtract the kinetic energy the satellite has when it just reaches the GPS altitude in its elliptical transfer orbit.
Your GPS satellite should end up in a circular orbit at an altitude of 20,200 km above the surface of the Earth. Did you successfully complete the mission?

MORE HINTS

If you need more extensive hints flip through the manual.




BONUS ASSIGNMENT!

How long does the transfer take?