Satellite orbit direction

[THX1138]

After accepting a satellite contract, the desired orbit is visible in the tracking station. There are some bright dots moving around the orbit in a particular direction (the opposite direction to which the natural bodies orbit each other in this solar system). Does this indicate that I need to launch the satellite moving in the opposite direction to the natural bodies?

Edited December 23, 2014 by THX1138

[RocketPilot573]

I'm not sure, though it probably does. I usually just use the AN and DN indicators so see if it's 180 degrees or 0.

[maltesh]

Yes. The direction of motion of the dots on the orbit indicates the direction along the orbit the contract wants your satellite to travel.

[OhioBob]

Yes.

You can also check the inclination of the orbit in your contract. If it is less than 90 degrees then you will be in a normal prograde orbit. If the inclination is greater than 90 degrees then you will be in a retrograde orbit.

[GigaG]

Retrograde orbit contracts are not that uncommon. Be careful. Especially if you are going to one of Kerbin's moons or another planet, as you need to be careful about which side you approach from.

If you are lucky and build small probes with excess delta-V (like me) and your orbit is high, you might be able to do a reversal after insertion in the wrong direction. Otherwise, you're screwed. So make sure you are following the dots!

[THX1138]

Thanks a lot! Incidentally, how do I determine the proper angle for launch from the data specified in the contract?

[lirg03]

Thanks a lot! Incidentally, how do I determine the proper angle for launch from the data specified in the contract?

For a relatively high target orbit (around or beyond Mun), you can simply launch into an equatorial LKO, boost up your AP at AN or DN, and correct the inclination at the new AP (which will also be DN or AN).

If you want to match (or at least get close to) the target inclination, then you can wait until KSC is just under the orbit itself then launch. When starting you gravity turn, turn into the direction of the orbit rather than east.