Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
An orbit is the path followed by an object around another object due to their gravitational attraction. It usually takes on a circular or elliptical shape.
Related terms
Escape Velocity: Escape velocity refers to the minimum velocity needed for an object (such as a rocket) to overcome Earth's gravitational pull and escape into space.
Kepler's Laws of Planetary Motion: These laws describe how planets and other objects move in orbits around each other based on their masses and distances.
Geostationary Orbit: A geostationary orbit is a special type of circular orbit where a satellite appears to remain fixed in the sky relative to an observer on Earth.