Orbital Velocity
Circular-orbit speed √(μ/r) around a central body from its gravitational parameter and distance from its center.
Description
Circular-orbit speed √(μ/r) around a central body from its gravitational parameter and distance from its center.
Orbital Velocity: Circular-orbit speed √(μ/r) around a central body from its gravitational parameter and distance from its center.
When to use Orbital Velocity
Use this engineering calculation for a transparent preliminary estimate or independent arithmetic check when geometry, materials, loads, operating conditions, and units are defined consistently.
- Gravitational Parameter Cubic Meters Per Second Squared (m³/s²)
- Required number input.
- Orbital Radius Meters (m)
- Required number input.
How Orbital Velocity works
Circular-orbit speed √(μ/r) around a central body from its gravitational parameter and distance from its center. The tool evaluates the supplied inputs together and returns the named outputs below; it does not infer omitted operating conditions or change the units shown.1
- Speed Meters Per Second (m/s)
- The resulting speed meters per second returned as a number.
Limitations and assumptions
- Simple orbital speed and escape formulas assume idealized point or spherical masses and often neglect atmosphere, rotation, nonspherical gravity, other bodies, propulsion losses, and the distinction between local speed and mission delta-v.
- Use finite inputs in the displayed units and preserve more precision than the final presentation requires. Independently verify safety-critical, financial, compliance, or production decisions.
Alternative or Complementary approaches
Check assumptions against drawings, measurements, current material data, and the applicable design code. Apply required load combinations and safety factors, then obtain qualified review and testing for consequential designs.
References
-
Orbital mechanics — Wikipedia contributors
Similar or alternative tools
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Ideal two-body escape speed √(2μ/r) at a specified center-to-center radius; ignores atmosphere and rotation.
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Approximate open-belt pitch length 2C+π(D+d)/2+(D−d)²/(4C) for center distance C.