Binary Star (circular)
This interactive simulator explores Binary Star (circular) in Gravity & Orbits. COM orbits; r₁,r₂; Kepler T² ∝ a³/(M₁+M₂). Use the controls to change the scenario; watch the visualization and any graphs or readouts to connect the model with lectures, labs, and homework.
Who it's for: Best once you already know the basic definitions and want to build intuition. Typical context: Gravity & Orbits.
Key terms
- binary
- star
- circular
- binary star
- gravity
- orbits
Live graphs
How it works
A visual binary can be modeled as two masses orbiting their common center of mass. For circular orbits the stars stay on opposite sides of the barycenter; orbital radii scale inversely with mass. Kepler’s third law uses the total mass M₁+M₂ for the relative motion.
Key equations
More from Gravity & Orbits
Other simulators in this category — or see all 14.
Roche Limit
Fluid d ≈ 2.456 R_p (ρ_p/ρ_s)^(1/3); vs orbit distance.
Space Elevator Tether
1D tension vs height; peak near GEO (normalized model).
Hohmann Transfer
Coplanar circles r₁,r₂; transfer ellipse; Δv₁, Δv₂ from vis-viva.
Oberth Effect
Same prograde Δv at peri vs apo on one ellipse; higher ε when burning deep.
Gravity-Assist Fly-By
Planet frame |u_out|=|u_in| rotated by δ; star frame v = V + u — Δ|v| from moving planet.
Orbit Simulator
Launch satellites. Achieve circular, elliptical orbits, or escape.