Atmospheric Drag Calculator
Calculate atmospheric drag force, orbital decay rate, and estimated remaining orbital lifetime for satellites.
Inputs
km
m²
kg
Results
Drag Force
0 N
Estimated Remaining Lifetime
2,478,503,772.76 years
Atmospheric Density0 kg/m³
Orbital Decay Rate0 m/day
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter orbital altitude (km) and the spacecraft's drag coefficient (typically 2.0–2.5 for LEO).
- Set the effective cross-section area (m²) facing the velocity vector and spacecraft mass (kg).
- Review atmospheric density at the entered altitude, drag force (N), and orbital decay rate (km/orbit).
- Use the remaining lifetime estimate to plan deorbit maneuvers or station-keeping budgets.
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