What is orbital gravity simulation?

An orbital gravity simulation is an interactive N-body physics model that calculates gravitational forces between multiple objects in real-time. It allows you to create planets, observe their orbits, and explore how mass, distance, and velocity determine orbital paths.

How does Newton's law of gravitation work?

Newton's law of universal gravitation states that every object attracts every other object with a force proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance between them. The gravitational constant G equals approximately 6.674 × 10⁻¹¹ m³/(kg·s²).

What determines a stable orbit?

A stable orbit requires a precise balance between an object's velocity and the gravitational pull of the central body. If the velocity is too low, the object falls inward; if too high, it escapes. Orbits can be circular, elliptical, parabolic, or hyperbolic depending on speed and direction.

Can gravity simulations predict real planetary motion?

Yes, numerical N-body simulations are used by scientists to predict real planetary motion, plan spacecraft trajectories, and model galaxy collisions. While the two-body problem has an exact analytical solution, the three-body problem and beyond require numerical computation, as proven by Henri Poincaré in 1887.

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🧪 Orbital Gravity Simulator: N-Body Physics and Kepler's Laws

Interactive N-body gravity simulation: create planets, moons, and binary stars. Observe Kepler's laws, gravitational slingshots, and orbital decay. Covers Newton's law of universal gravitation for GCSE and A-level physics.

Physics & Mechanics2DModerate60 FPS

⚙ Under the hood

This simulation models the gravitational interactions between multiple celestial bodies using Newton’s laws of motion and Kepler’s laws of planetary motion. Users can observe orbital dynamics and explore concepts like elliptical orbits.

N-Body PhysicsKepler's LawsOrbital Mechanics

2D · HTML5 Canvas 2D · 60 FPS target · runs fully client-side, no install