Effect of Thrust on a Satellite Orbit
A satellite in a stable circular orbit fires its engines, producing a constant thrust directed perpendicular to its instantaneous velocity. Which of the following best describes the satellite’s subsequent orbital path?
A
The orbit remains circular and the speed stays constant
B
The satellite immediately escapes in a straight line from its orbit
C
The motion turns into a closed elliptical orbit at the original energy
D
The path spirals outward, speed and distance from center increase
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