ORBITAL DECAY Meaning and
Definition
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Orbital decay refers to the gradual decrease in the altitude or size of the orbit of a human-made satellite, spacecraft, or other celestial object due to various factors. It is a phenomenon that occurs when an object's orbit is influenced by atmospheric drag, gravitational forces, or other influences, leading to a new, lower orbit over time. This decay results in a reduction in the satellite's orbital altitude, ultimately causing it to descend closer to Earth.
Atmospheric drag, caused by the thin remnants of the Earth's atmosphere at higher altitudes, is a primary factor responsible for orbital decay. As the satellite moves through this atmospheric region, it experiences drag, which leads to a gradual slowdown. This deceleration reduces the satellite's orbital velocity, causing the object to move to a lower orbit.
Gravitational forces from other celestial bodies, such as the Moon and the Sun, can also contribute to orbital decay. These forces exert a slight influence on the satellite's trajectory, causing it to drift or change its orbit gradually over time.
Orbital decay has practical implications for satellite operators, as it can lead to a satellite reentering Earth's atmosphere and burning up. Consequently, maintaining orbital altitude through occasional repositioning or using propulsion systems to counteract the decay is necessary to extend the operational lifespan of these objects. Additionally, scientists and engineers closely monitor orbital decay to predict the trajectory of satellites and prevent potential collisions with other orbital objects.
Common Misspellings for ORBITAL DECAY
- irbital decay
- krbital decay
- lrbital decay
- prbital decay
- 0rbital decay
- 9rbital decay
- oebital decay
- odbital decay
- ofbital decay
- otbital decay
- o5bital decay
- o4bital decay
- orvital decay
- ornital decay
- orhital decay
- orgital decay
- orbutal decay
- orbjtal decay
- orbktal decay
- orbotal decay
Etymology of ORBITAL DECAY
The term "orbital decay" is composed of two words: "orbital" and "decay".
1. Orbital: The word "orbital" stems from the Latin word "orbita", which means a track or path. In the context of physics and astronomy, an orbit refers to the path followed by an object as it revolves around another object under the influence of gravity.
2. Decay: The word "decay" has Latin origins as well, originating from the Latin word "decadere", which means to fall down or deteriorate. In the scientific context, decay often refers to various processes involving the decline or breakdown of a system, substance, or material.
