Hohmann Transfer Calculator
Estimate the Δv and transfer time of a Hohmann transfer between two circular orbits.
Input Data
Initial circular orbit radius.
Target circular orbit radius.
Standard gravitational parameter (Earth ≈ 398600 km³/s²).
Results
2.4258
1.4668
0.22
Δv₁ = 2.4258, Δv₂ = 1.4668 km/s; transfer 0.22 days.
At a glance:Hohmann transfer is the most fuel-efficient two-impulse transfer between coplanar circular orbits. Transfer semi-major axis a = (r₁+r₂)/2; two Δv and time t = π√(a³/μ).
Formula
a = (r₁+r₂)/2.
Δv₁ = √(μ(2/r₁−1/a)) − √(μ/r₁).
Δv₂ = √(μ/r₂) − √(μ(2/r₂−1/a)).
t = π·√(a³/μ).
How to Use
- Enter r₁, r₂ and μ.
- The tool returns Δv₁, Δv₂ and transfer time.
Case Studies
LEO→GEO: Δv₁≈2.42, Δv₂≈1.47 km/s, t≈5.26 h
Using r₁=6678, r₂=42164, μ=398600.
FAQ
Why two burns?
One tangential impulse at each orbit perigee/apogee, minimum fuel.
Units?
With consistent r, μ (km, km³/s²), Δv is km/s and time is seconds.
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References
Content reviewed by the Calculatorism editorial team. Results are for reference only; please refer to the relevant authorities for the official figures.