Orbits
An orbit is the path an object in space travels around another. Lots of objects in the Universe orbit others. The Moon orbits the Earth.
- Why do orbits happen?
Orbits happen because of gravity and something called momentum. The Moon's momentum wants to carry it off into space in a straight line. The Earth's gravity pulls the Moon back towards the Earth. The constant tug of war between these forces creates a curved path. The Moon orbits the Earth because the gravity and momentum balance out.
Johannes Kepler
Occupation
Astronomer, Mathematician, Scientist, Teacher
Year born
1571
Research Areas
Planetary motion, Optics, Geometry
- Early Life
Johannes was born in Weil der Stadt (now part of Germany). He had an interest in astronomy from a very young age. When he was 6, his mother took him up to a high place to see the Great Comet of 1577. When he was 9, he was called outdoors to see a lunar eclipse. His family were poor, but Johannes got a scholarship to study at the University of Tübingen.