Concept
Mean Motion Resonance
A whole-number ratio of orbital periods.
Orbital configuration where two bodies' periods form a simple integer ratio, e.g., Neptune and Pluto in a 3:2 resonance.
Overview
Orbital configuration where two bodies' periods form a simple integer ratio, e.g., Neptune and Pluto in a 3:2 resonance.
See also
Milankovitch Cycles
Slow orbital changes that drive Earth's ice ages.
Lagrange Points
Five spots where gravity and orbital motion balance.
Orbital Resonance
Bodies locked in a rational period ratio.
Secular Resonance
Slow alignment of orbital orientations.
Horseshoe Orbit
A co-orbital path shaped like a horseshoe.
Two-body Problem
Orbital-mechanics concept, special orbit, or mission-design maneuver.