Energy Science, Engineering, and Policy

Shape of Orbital Path

Abstract

Nainan K. Varghese

In any system of macro bodies, relative considerations can provide only parameters of their relative positions. Use of a reference frame related to a static central macro body causes a planetary orbital path to appear as a closed geometrical figure around the central macro body. As the central macro body is moving; this does not reflect physical reality. Although this helps to explain cyclic phenomena, properties attributed to elliptical/circular planetary orbital paths are unreal. Due to constant linear motions of free macro bodies in space, it is practically impossible for a free macro body to orbit around another in any type of closed geometrical path. However, they may orbit about each other and follow a common median path in space. The real orbital path of a planetary body is wavy about the median path of the central body, with the planetary body moving to the front and rear of the central body alternately.

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