How do moons stay in orbit?

How can you determine if six or seven moons can stay in a stable orbit around a planet without colliding or being flung out? I am trying to determine a formula which would explain stability in orbit.
Question asked by: Orokron

Asked on: 31 Aug 2009

Forces are what keep planets in orbit around the sun, and moons in orbit around their stars.

Well, it is one force in particular - it is gravity. The gravitational pull and the distance that the moon is at are what keep it in orbit - if it were too far away to be under the influence of the gravitational pull it would gradually drift away, too close and it would be pulled on a collision course with the planet.
By: stephy
Replied at: 01 Sep 2009
Rate Answer

Comment or provide your answer to this question
No comments have been added to this question "How do moons stay in orbit?".

Ask a New Question

Find out more about Astronomy

Astronomy Questions and Answers

moons Questions and Answers

Next question: the area where all the water flows into a river

Become a Member! It's Free >>>

Puzzles

Question Keywords

orbit stay moons

More Questions:

Do Black Holes Really Exist?
What Are Good Words Starting With S,a,t,u,r And N Discribing Saturn
What Will Be Present Beyond The Farthest Star On The Universe ?