How to calculate perihelion precession

  • Thread starter Bjarne
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Precession
In summary, a space probe orbiting the Sun in an elliptical orbit would emit heat towards the direction of motion, causing resistance against motion. This resistance is only present when the probe is moving from aphelion towards perihelion and is equivalent to 1E-9 m/s. However, after passing perihelion, the opposite occurs and the heat escape turns into acceleration, also at a rate of 1E-9 m/s. This phenomenon would result in the probe experiencing its own perihelion precession anomaly. To calculate this anomaly, one can use Lagrange's planetary equations, found in most astrodynamics texts, which provide equations for the object's orbit elements as functions of the forces on it
  • #1
Bjarne
344
0
Let’s say that a space probe orbiting the Sun in an elliptical orbit prove would emit heat towards the motion direction., and hence causing resistance against motion.
Let’s say it would happen only when it was moving from aphelion towards perihelion, - and that the motion resistance is 1E-9 m/s.
After passing Perihelion the opposite did happen, instead of resistance the heat escape would be turned to acceleration, also 1E-9 m/s.

I believe this would cause the space prove to get its own perihelion precession anomaly.

How can a such be calculated ?
 
Astronomy news on Phys.org
  • #2
Lagrange's planetary equations, which you can find in most astrodynamics texts.
 
  • #3
Those are equations for the object's orbit elements as functions of the forces on it. One can find equations for long-term behavior by averaging over orbit times.
 
  • #4
This math is above my head, can someone show an example?
 
  • #5
I am willing to reward the one that will spend time on showing an example of calculation.
 

Related to How to calculate perihelion precession

1. What is perihelion precession?

Perihelion precession is the phenomenon where the point of closest approach of an orbiting body to the sun gradually shifts over time.

2. How is perihelion precession calculated?

Perihelion precession is calculated using the theories of Newtonian mechanics and general relativity, which take into account the gravitational pull of other planets and the effects of spacetime curvature.

3. What factors affect perihelion precession?

The primary factors that affect perihelion precession are the mass and orbital distance of the orbiting body, as well as the gravitational pull of other nearby celestial bodies.

4. How do scientists measure perihelion precession?

Scientists measure perihelion precession by observing the orbital paths of celestial bodies and tracking any changes in the point of closest approach to the sun over time. This can be done using telescopes and advanced mathematical models.

5. Why is perihelion precession important to study?

Perihelion precession is important to study because it can provide insight into the fundamental laws of physics and the behavior of celestial bodies. It also has practical applications in fields such as astronomy and space travel.

Similar threads

Replies
4
Views
1K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
2
Replies
36
Views
15K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
8
Views
17K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
30
Views
3K
  • Astronomy and Astrophysics
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
6
Views
2K
Replies
15
Views
6K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
1K
Back
Top