Meriam, Kraige & Bolton — Introduction to Dynamics: Problem 1_8

1/8 A space shuttle is in a circular orbit at an altitude of 150 mi. Calculate the absolute value of g at this altitude and determine the corresponding weight of a shuttle passenger who weighs 200 lb when standing on the surface of the earth at a latitude of 45°. Are the terms “zero-g” and “weightless,” which are sometimes used to describe conditions aboard orbiting spacecraft, correct in the absolute sense?