Engineering >> OtherExecuting Orbital Maneuversby Vincent Traina
Submitted : Spring 2013 In this project, we will apply calculus tools to verify simple aerospace mechanics. Consider a rocket executing an orbital maneuver throughout space. The rocket has a specific engine with constants such as its thrust capacity, mass, and specific impulse. Using Newton’s 2nd law, we can derive an equation that can be used to express the final mass of a system that is losing mass over time. Using the change in mass and the mass flow rate, we can determine the time it takes to burn all the fuel for that specific phase. We use the Saturn V rocket used in the Apollo missions as an example to verify the results and concluded that it took approximately 351 seconds for the rocket to burn all it’s fuel during the third stage. Related Links:
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