Orbital Velocity Calculator

Circular Orbital Velocity

A satellite in a stable circular orbit moves fast enough that centripetal acceleration matches gravitational pull. Orbital velocity depends on the central body mass and orbital radius.

Formula

$$v = \sqrt{\frac{GM}{r}}$$

$G$ is the gravitational constant, $M$ is the mass of the central body, and $r$ is the distance from the center of mass to the orbiting object.

Period Connection

For a circular orbit, period follows $T = 2\pi r / v$. Low Earth orbit speeds are near 7.7 km/s for Earth, while geostationary orbits require much larger radius and lower angular speed.

Related tools: Earth Orbit Calculator and Escape Velocity Calculator.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does orbital velocity depend on satellite mass?

For circular orbits around a much larger body, satellite mass cancels out and does not affect orbital speed.

Why is ISS speed about 7.7 km/s?

At roughly 400 km altitude above Earth, gravitational pull and required centripetal acceleration balance near that speed.

Is this formula exact for elliptical orbits?

This tool assumes a circular orbit. Elliptical paths have speed that varies with position.

What units should I use for mass and radius?

Use SI units: kilograms for mass and meters for radius. The calculator converts altitude in kilometers internally.

How is orbital period calculated here?

Period is computed as $T = 2\pi r / v$ using the circular-orbit velocity from the same radius.

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Circular Orbital Velocity

Formula

Period Connection

Frequently Asked Questions

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