Understanding Eclipses and Satellite Movement
Solar and Lunar Eclipses
Eclipses occur when one celestial body moves into the shadow of another body, highlighting the interactions between the Earth, Moon, and Sun.
- Solar Eclipse: This occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, blocking the sunlight. It can be total, partial, or annular, depending on the alignment and distance from Earth.
- Lunar Eclipse: This occurs when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, causing the Earth's shadow to fall on the Moon. It can be total, partial, or penumbral.
- Frequency: Solar eclipses happen 2 to 5 times a year, while lunar eclipses occur a bit more frequently, around 2 to 3 times a year.
- Path of Totality: Only those within the narrow path of totality will experience the total solar eclipse, while a larger area will observe a partial eclipse.
Orbits and Satellite Movement
Orbits are the curved paths that celestial bodies follow due to gravitational forces, determining the movement and stability of satellites.
- Types of Orbits: Satellites can enter various orbits: geostationary, polar, elliptical, and low Earth orbit, each serving specific purposes.
- Gravity and Speed: The gravitational force between Earth and the satellite creates a balance with the satellite's inertia, maintaining its orbit.
- Kepler's Laws: Johannes Kepler formulated three laws of planetary motion which describe how planets, including satellites, move in elliptical orbits.
- Geostationary Orbit: At about 35,786 kilometres above the equator, satellites in geostationary orbit maintain a position relative to Earth, ideal for communication purposes.
- Orbital Period: The time taken for a satellite to complete one orbit is influenced by its distance from Earth; the farther it is, the longer the orbital period.
