Orbital Parameters
Orbital parameters are the specific characteristics that define the path of an object in space, such as a planet or a satellite, as it orbits around another body, like a star or a planet. Key parameters include the object's distance from the central body, its speed, and the shape of its orbit, which can be circular or elliptical. These parameters help scientists predict the object's position and movement over time.
The most important orbital parameters include semi-major axis, eccentricity, inclination, and orbital period. The semi-major axis measures the average distance from the central body, while eccentricity indicates how elongated the orbit is. Inclination describes the tilt of the orbit relative to a reference plane, and the orbital period is the time it takes to complete one full orbit.