“Planetary Motion” explores the celestial mechanics governing the orbits and interactions of planets within solar systems, offering insights into astronomy, astrophysics, and space exploration. Understanding planetary motion helps us predict planetary positions and comprehend solar system formation. The book elucidates Kepler's Laws, describing planets' elliptical paths, and Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation, explaining the forces behind these movements. One intriguing fact is how these laws enable precise planning for interplanetary missions. The book uniquely emphasizes practical applications and visualizations, moving beyond mere equations to provide interactive simulations.
Beginning with planetary properties and Kepler's Laws, the text progresses to Newton's Law, orbital perturbations, tidal forces, and orbital resonance. Data from NASA missions, such as Kepler and TESS, illustrate real-world examples. This approach makes complex physics accessible to students and enthusiasts alike, providing a comprehensive understanding of planetary science.
