Circularization

What is a Circular Orbit?

A circular orbit is one where: - Periapsis = Apoapsis - Eccentricity = 0 (or very close to 0) - Speed is constant throughout - Distance from planet center is constant

Circular orbits are stable and predictable, making them ideal for satellites, space stations, and rendezvous operations.

How to Circularize

To circularize an elliptical orbit:

1. Choose your altitude: Circularize at periapsis (lower) or apoapsis (higher)

2. Go to chosen point: Wait until you reach that altitude

3. Burn to match: - At periapsis: Burn prograde to raise apoapsis - At apoapsis: Burn retrograde to lower apoapsis

4. Fine-tune: Adjust until periapsis ≈ apoapsis

Calculating the Burn

The delta-V needed to circularize depends on your current orbit:

Δv = |v_circular - v_current|

Where: - v_circular = √(μ/r) at your chosen altitude - v_current = your speed at that point

The game calculates this for you, but understanding helps!