How do Orbits Work? Why do we Float in Space?

In this lesson, you will learn what an orbit is and how orbits work in microgravity. In orbit to orbit a planet or star, the spacecraft must reach orbital velocity, which is the speed needed to continually fall around the planet without hitting the surface. We discuss that in space, even though we call it zero gravity, the gravitational force from the planet never gets to zero. The formula for the gravitational force between two objects tells us that the force depends on the masses of the objects and their separation distance. To reach orbit and overcome the force of gravity, we must reach a horizontal velocity fast enough so that, even though we are falling to the ground, we never hit the ground. The reason that astronauts are weightless is that they are falling at the same rate as the spacecraft, so from inside there appears to be zero gravity. However, gravity never falls to zero. This is why we call it microgravity.

[katomoon]

If every professor was as passionate, clear, precise as this professor we would have so many happy graduates. Continue doing whatever you and your team are doing the world will be a better place. Many thanks indeed from Uganda - East Africa

[andymorales]

I love the mix of your style of teaching with a shorter format answering interesting questions !! More of this, please 😸☀️

[alexhudson-]

Over the past 3 weeks I've been diligently going through your Java playlists all while I'm taking an intro Java course in school and honestly, your Java videos are the most useful and precious content on the internet to me right now. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. You're my favorite teacher I've never met. God bless.

[johnx]

Im literally watching your videos on your webpage. Best professor ever!

[thepeach]

As always, mind blown. So clear and to the point with math included. I used to tell my teachers in school, “why are u teaching me this” “what will I use this for” and they would never have an answer just more math problems.

[KCMFCs]

Is there any chance you could produce a whole series on Orbital Mechanics? These are fantastic!

[novbirthmataky]

your are my favorite teacher! Your teaching concerning elements and I love it very much. I have learned a lots from you. However, it still confusing to be honest when you explained about why an object is orbiting another object with much gravity.

I'm so excited to know why the electron is orbiting around the nucleus and I think learning about the moon orbiting the Earth will be a good example.

What I have learned from this video is that, the more speed and abject is, the more the distance it go, and the less speed it becomes it gradually fall due to the gravity, which is make sense. However, the moon is in a slow motion in speed and it never fall. Could you please explained more on this?

please consider the following question.

- What caused the moon to move?
- What keep the moon from falling or descending away from the Earth?
- Why the moon is in a slow motion orbiting the Earth?


- What is the force loop that keep the moon moving?

[joegagliardi]

It’s incredible that he’s literally is a genius in every science and math subject. I’ve watched nearly all his videos. I wish the full courses were free, because his style is extremely helpful. He’s down-to-earth and explains each concept in a clear and simple way. My only wish is that they would give him a larger white board. 😊

[jeffplunkett]

Very good condensing of a subject that many don't fully understand. Since I was a kid, I've been a huge fan of NASA and the space program. So I made it my point to study orbital mechanics in college.

[sharon]

I love this style video! (Working through your math classes hoping to conquer calculus too.😊)

[rip]

Where does the speed come for the second orbit come from? What is propelling the object to keep momentum up after first orbit?

[lindalove]

I just learned something that I had in mind since I was a kid and now that I’m not expecting to know this information, here goes an awesome Professor explaining it! Thank you for the way you explain things because it’s very helpful to me! 😃

[birdman]

Thanks for the great video explanation. So effectively using g=GMe/r^2 and taking a radius to the space station as approx 6800, 000m the g at space station is effectively 8.65 m/s^2 or about 88% that of Earth?

[Phymacss]

Your nested functions video made me subscribe! Thanks a lot!

[anthonygregg]

your teaching is amazing sir. you are solely responsible in renewing my interest in science.

[javeedaj]

Your explanation is very good
Can understand easily

[danlink]

fascinating! i'd love it if you could add what would happen if the ISS were to surpass said speed, is it at risk of leaving orbit and roaming to outer space?
when a space shuttle wants to come back to earth does it simply have to lower its speed?
Anyways Big fan here watched your linear algebra, java series and now in the midst of calculus 1, next semester calculus 2 and physics.

so glad to have stumbled across your channel and become a member on the website, Keep it up!Much love from Israel!

[graciecampus]

Mind blowing.Thank you!! Absolutely fascinating...So Love this ❤

[slevinshafel]

5:33 Close but that dont explain it really. ISS have acceleration? What is the diference in orbiting like ISS and make spin launch? one got gravity at least push you in one side.

[elyanhriz]

thank you so much for those amazing videos
i just please have a question is this course works for grade 10 ?