Tether orientation diagram
Robert H. McNaught, Anglo-Australian Observatory (RMN@aaocbn2.aao.gov.au)
Sun, 14 Jul 1996 15:33:28 +1000 (EST)
The simplest way to show that the tether is always vertically orientated
(IF it is vertical in 3-D) is with a diagram. No matter where the tether
is in its orbit, it points to the center of the Earth. Norton, Ralph,
the center of the Earth and the observer are always co-planar. It is this
plane that pivots during a pass. Thus Norton will always be vertically above
Ralph to any observer.
\ up
Norton * ^ up
\ |
Ralph * o Observer
\ |
\ |
\ |
\ |
\ |
\| Center of Earth
Cheers, Rob (rmn@aaocbn2.aao.gov.au)