Newton's Cannon
Fire a cannonball faster and faster from a mountain top until it orbits, then escapes.
ESO/S. Guisard (www.eso.org/~sguisard) (CC BY 4.0)
Newton's Cannon
Launch speed
Circular orbit speed here
Escape speed here
The mountain is drawn far taller than any real one so you can see it. Air resistance is ignored.
Data table (text alternative)
Slower than the circular speed: it falls back. Between circular and escape speed: it orbits. At or above escape speed: it leaves for good.
| Planet | Circular orbit speed here | Escape speed here |
|---|---|---|
| Earth | 7.61 km/s | 10.8 km/s |
| Moon | 1.62 km/s | 2.29 km/s |
| Mars | 3.42 km/s | 4.84 km/s |
Tools and lessons use simplified models for learning only. They must not be used for navigation, mission planning or any operational decision. Certificates are free and non-accredited. Read the educational content disclaimer