Kepler Motion

Choose the initial velocity vector for your planet. The radial velocity tells you whether the planet is approaching the Sun (negative) or receding from it (positive). The azimuthal velocity is the component of velocity perpendicular to the radial direction. The default values will give you a circular orbit.

Radial Velocity: Azimuthal Velocity:


Return to the Astronomy Workshop

Kepler Motion written by Dr. Douglas P. Hamilton