Low-thrust escape spiral
Continuous tangential thrust from a circular orbit to E = 0 costs about v_circ. Impulsive escape is (sqrt(2) - 1) v_circ.
SIDUS educational calculator. Category propulsion. Tags: delta-v, mission-design, propulsion, trajectory. Pure SI. Not flight software.
Formula
Δv_spiral = √(μ/r) Δv_imp = (√2−1) v_c
Low-thrust spiral to escape
Primary sources
- Fundamentals of Astrodynamics and Applications (David A. Vallado): Standard reference for two-body, Lambert, maneuvers, and J2. Equations implemented independently in SIDUS.
- Orbital Mechanics for Engineering Students (Howard D. Curtis): Textbook derivations for Hohmann, vis-viva, rocket equation, elements.
How do AI agents use this tool?
Read /llms.txt or call https://sidus.tools/api/mcp. Open the interactive page for live SI inputs.