The Hill Sphere Defines a Planet’s Grip

Planets have a gravitational “reach.”

The Hill sphere is the region where a planet dominates gravitational influence over moons against the Sun’s pull. Moons must orbit within it to remain stable.

Why This Matters

Calculating Hill spheres informs satellite placement and planetary capture theory.

It affects exoplanetary system design and understanding moon formation.

Did You Know?

Earth’s Hill sphere extends about 1.5 million km from the planet.

Source

[NASA, nasa.gov]

AD 1

Related Facts