For a satellite of mass m in circular orbit of radius r around mass M:
| Quantity | Formula | Sign |
|---|---|---|
| KE | Positive | |
| PE | -GMm/r | Negative |
| Total E | - | Negative |
| Binding E | Positive |
Key relations:
- Total E = -KE = PE/2
- |PE| = 2*KE (virial theorem)
- Binding energy = energy needed to send satellite to infinity = -Total E
As orbit radius increases: KE decreases, PE increases (less negative), Total E increases (less negative). The satellite is less tightly bound.