Orbiting body

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In astrodynamics, an orbiting body (m_2) is a body that orbits a primary body (m_1).

The orbiting body is properly referred to as the secondary body.[1]

It is less massive than the primary body (i.e. m_1>m_2).

Under standard assumptions in astrodynamics the barycenter of the two bodies is a focus of both orbits.

[edit] See also

[edit] References

  1. ^ NASA "Dictionary of Technical Terms for Aerospace Use" http://er.jsc.nasa.gov/SEH/s.html, retrieved 5/11/2010


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