Physics Classroom
The Physics Classroom: Energy Relationships for Satellites
The orbits of satellites are described and an energy analysis is performed. Kinetic, potential and total mechanical energy are explained and applied to the motion of satellites.
Georgia State University
Georgia State University: Hyper Physics: Earth Orbit Velocity
A discussion and statement of an equation for orbital speed. An interactive JavaScript form allows the user to investigate the relationship between orbital height and orbital speed. A very good opportunity to practice and receive...
Physics Classroom
The Physics Classroom: Satellite Motion
An animation depicting the path of projectiles launched at various launch speeds from the fictional Newton's Mountain. Accompanying text discusses satellite motion and the requirements of orbital motion. Links to further information is...
Other
Ciprian Sufitchi: Live Real Time Satellite Tracking
A captivating report that allows you to track specific satellites and see where they are in their orbit.
Physics Aviary
Physics Aviary: Practice Problems: Kinetic Energy of a Satellite
Students must determine the kinetic energy of a satellite as it orbits around a planet.
Physics Aviary
Physics Aviary: Practice Problems: Jolly Gas Giant Problem
Students must calculate the mass of a planet based on the orbital motion of the moon going around the planet.
Physics Aviary
Physics Aviary: Practice Problems: Orbital Motion of a Synchronous Satellite
Students must calculate the altitude of a satellite that is in a geosynchronous satellite going around the planet.
Physics Aviary
Physics Aviary: Practice Problems: Finding Speed of a Satellite
Students must determine speed of a satellite by timing the satellite for part of its orbit. Students must also determine the period of the orbit based on their timing.
Physics Aviary
Physics Aviary: Practice Problems: Orbital Motion of a Satellite
Students must calculate the period of a satellite moving around one of the bodies in our solar system.
Physics Classroom
The Physics Classroom: Circular and Satellite Motion: Orbital Motion Interactive
This simulation of a satellite's elliptical motion around a central body allows students to alter the eccentricity of the orbit while learning about velocity and force vectors.
Physics Classroom
The Physics Classroom: Circular and Satellite Motion: Principles for Satellites
Students explore how a satellite's motion is governed by the same physics principles and described by the same mathematical equations.
Physics Classroom
The Physics Classroom: Circular and Satellite Motion: Satellite Motion Math
In this interactive physics tutorial, students explore the variety of mathematical equations that describe the motion of satellites.
Physics Classroom
The Physics Classroom: Circular and Satellite Motion: Energy in Satellites
Through interactive practice problems and illustrated examples, students explore energy relationships for satellites.
Physics Aviary
Physics Aviary: Satellite Lab
This lab is designed to allow students to explore different aspects of satellite motion. Students can vary the mass of the satellite, the orbital radius of the satellite and the body that the satellite is orbiting. Students can measure...
CK-12 Foundation
Ck 12: Earth Science: Satellites, Shuttles, and Space Stations Study Guide
[Free Registration/Login may be required to access all resource tools.] This study guide provides a brief overview of satellites, shuttles, rockets, and space stations. Includes a few questions to check for understanding.
PBS
Pbs Learning Media: Satellite Motion
Explore the motion of a satellite as it orbits the earth in this interactive simulation.
Science Buddies
Science Buddies: Stargazing for Satellites
Did you know you can see many satellites with the naked eye? Try this activity and find out for yourself!
NASA
Nasa: Kepler's Third Law
This site from NASA states Kepler's third law of motion and extends it to develop an equation for the velocity of an orbiting planet.
NASA
Nasa: Kepler's Second Law
This site from NASA states Kepler's second law of planetary motion and depicts its meaning with an informative diagram. Relates the law to conservation of energy principles and discusses the eccentricity of a satellite's (or a planet's)...
PBS
Pbs Teachers: Comparing Satellite and Broadcast Radio Landscapes (Lesson Plan)
A lesson in which students research the development of satellite technology and how it has evolved over the last 50 years. Students will examine the impact of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 and discuss the role of a diverse, free...
University of St. Andrews (UK)
University of St. Andrews: Orbits and Gravitation
A page describing the physics, mathematics, and historical figures associated with planetary motion, satellite motion, and universal gravitation.
Georgia State University
Georgia State University: Hyper Physics: Global Positioning Satellites
The physics associated with global positioning satellites is discussed. The mechanism by which they triangulate the location of an object is described.
Georgia State University
Georgia State University: Hyper Physics: Circular Orbit
The necessity of gravitation to a circular orbit is discussed and equations for the orbital speed are derived from the law of universal gravitation. Binary systems in which two objects orbit about a center of mass are explained and...
NASA
Nasa: The Rocket Motor
An online version of a book pertaining to task of launching rockets into space and subsequently navigating them through space. The first several "chapters" (pages) describe the influence of gravity on Earth and the barriers which it...