Escape Velocity Calculator
Calculate the minimum velocity needed to escape a celestial body
About this calculator
The Escape Velocity Calculator determines the minimum speed an object needs to completely escape a celestial body's gravitational pull without additional propulsion. This tool is essential for aerospace engineers, physics students, and space enthusiasts planning missions or understanding orbital mechanics. By inputting a celestial body's mass and radius, you can calculate the exact velocity required for spacecraft, rockets, or any object to break free from gravitational bonds and travel into space.
How to use
Enter the mass of the celestial body (in kilograms) and its radius (in meters) into the calculator. The tool will automatically compute the escape velocity using the standard physics formula. Results are typically displayed in meters per second and may include conversions to kilometers per second or miles per hour for easier interpretation.
Frequently asked questions
What is Earth's escape velocity?
Earth's escape velocity is approximately 11.2 kilometers per second (25,020 mph). This is the minimum speed needed for any object to escape Earth's gravitational field permanently.
Does escape velocity depend on the object's mass?
No, escape velocity is independent of the object's mass. It only depends on the celestial body's mass and radius, making it the same for all objects.
How does escape velocity relate to orbital velocity?
Escape velocity is always √2 times the orbital velocity at the surface. While orbital velocity maintains a circular path, escape velocity allows complete gravitational escape.