Ask an Explainer

Q:

Where would gravity be the strongest in elliptical orbits?

A:

As long as the size of the satellite stays constant, gravity will be strongest in elliptical orbits when the satellite is closest to the object it is orbiting. The strength of gravity depends on the mass of the satellite, the mass of the object it is orbiting, and the distance between the two objects. For example, Earth's pull is stronger the closer you are to earth (as long as you and Earth stay at a relatively constant mass)! 

Ask an Explainer
Categories: