Advanced Question Synchronize Rotational Velocity with Orbit

[PaulG]

When in orbit, how do I synchronize my rotational velocity with my orbit so that the ship (DGIV or shuttle, etc) remains in the same orientation throughout the orbit?

In other words, I want to maintain the same relative angle, normal to earth, during my orbit, just like the real shuttle does.

Thanks,
Paul

 

[Urwumpe]

Angular rate of the Orbit is 360°/orbit period (T).

Just tap your RCS carefully until you are rotating so fast.

 

[PaulG]

So, there is no MFD to set it? Thats ok...I was just hoping for a more precise way of setting it....

I know T is obtained from orbit MFD, but where can I monitor the angular velocity?

 

[agentgonzo]

It's something I've thought about, but never managed to find. I normally tap the RCS as Urwumpe mentioned

 

[n122vu]

If you have the Shuttle Fleet installed, check the docks for TORVA practice. I think it mentions the rotational acceleration needed when you are approaching the station on the V-bar (headed toward the docking port from in front of the station). I am at work, so I can not verify this for sure, but you should take a look at that doc anyway as it has some relevant info.

 

[tblaxland]

It's something I've thought about, but never managed to find. I normally tap the RCS as Urwumpe mentioned

For most shuttle missions the orbit is near enough to circular that using Attitude MFD in Velocity mode will have you near-as-dammit to a synchronous angular velocity.

In relation to the OP, Shuttle missions have a nominal attitude relative to the velocity vector anyway (it is normally written in the flight plans that way). So if you see -ZLV -XVV (a fairly typical attitude), that means payload bay to the earth and flying tail first. You would acheive that attitude in Attitude MFD Velocity mode by setting a pitch of 180 degrees.

 

[PaulG]

Thanks a lot. I'll try this out.

Worked like a charm! Thanks!

 

[Andy44]

[ame="http://www.orbithangar.com/searchid.php?ID=3165"]Attitude MFD V3.2[/ame]

Attitude MFD will do this for you.

If your orbit is not circular then the angular rates will change as you go around.