Why do astronauts in an orbiting satellite have a feeling of weightles

1.	Why do astronauts in an orbiting satellite have a feeling of weightlessness?
Answer» 1. For an astronaut, in a satellite, the net force towards the centre of the Earth will always be, F = mg – N. where, N is the normal reaction. 2. In the case of a revolving satellite, the satellite is performing a circular motion. The acceleration for this motion is centripetal, which is provided by the gravitational acceleration g at the location of the satellite. 3. In this case, the downward acceleration, a_d = g, or the satellite (along with the astronaut) is in the state of free fall. 4. Thus, the net force acting on astronaut will be, F = mg – ma_d i.e., the apparent weight will be zero, giving the feeling of total weightlessness.

Why do astronauts in an orbiting satellite have a feeling of weightlessness?

Answer»

1. For an astronaut, in a satellite, the net force towards the centre of the Earth will always be, F = mg – N. where, N is the normal reaction.

2. In the case of a revolving satellite, the satellite is performing a circular motion. The acceleration for this motion is centripetal, which is provided by the gravitational acceleration g at the location of the satellite.

3. In this case, the downward acceleration, a_d = g, or the satellite (along with the astronaut) is in the state of free fall.

4. Thus, the net force acting on astronaut will be, F = mg – ma_d i.e., the apparent weight will be zero, giving the feeling of total weightlessness.

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