Asked by Frances

What do you need to know in order to calculate the mass of a planet from observations of a satellite in orbit around that planet?

14 years ago

Answered by Regina

I read somewhere that you need to know the orbital period and radius of the planet is that correct?

14 years ago

Answered by drwls

You need the orbital period and the radius of the satellite's orbit (not the planet). That will let you calculate the planet's mass.

14 years ago

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