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PolskiSpace Elevator: Gravity vs Centrifugal Force (2D)
2D companion to the 3D space elevator model: a real ω²r − μ/r² force balance moves a climber along the cable while a numerically integrated tension profile — peaking at geostationary altitude — shows why the structure needs a counterweight beyond GEO.
A 2D companion to the 3D space elevator model: drive a climber along the cable and watch its net force flip sign at geostationary altitude, while a numerically integrated tension profile shows why the structure needs a counterweight beyond GEO to stay taut.
Net radial acceleration is a(r) = ω²r − μ/r², Earth's rotation rate squared times radius minus GM/r². Below geostationary orbit (42,164 km) gravity dominates and the cable carries the climber's weight; above it centrifugal force dominates and the structure is flung outward. Cable tension is a cumulative numerical integral of |a(r)| from each free end toward GEO, so it peaks exactly there.
2D · HTML5 Canvas 2D · 60 FPS target · runs fully client-side, no install