Planet Orbits

[ray_thebrain]

I was looking at my globe and wonder this concept.

Is It possible, what would happen if the earth or any planet or moon etc. rotated on its axis with the pole end leading its path of its orbit. Like the earth in a football spiral around the sun. hmmm any thing like that possible or in existence

[Hadi]

Indeed i dont know why this topic hasn't been replied to yet. Only reason i can think of it that it wasn't posted in the ask the professionals section. To answer your question if your even still around these forums uranus leads its orbit with its poles facing the direction of its motion

[stagdgreat]

"uranus leads its orbit with its poles facing the direction of its motion" No it doesn't.

True, its axis of rotation is tilted horizontal, but its axis does not change with respect to its orientation. I.e. Uranus has a pole star as well, which its axis is always aligned with, like the Earth.

The only time Uranus' axis of rotation aligns with its orbital motiuon is at its spring and fall equinoxes, just like Earth.

Regards bsev55's question: "what would happen if the earth or any planet or moon etc. rotated on its axis with the pole end leading its path of its orbit."

The gyroscopic motion caused by rotation about its axis prevents its turning along its orbit. If you've ever done the "spinning bicycle wheel**" thing you'll know how difficult it is to turn while also rotating.

* *:

1. Sit on a swivelling, rolling office chair.

2. Hold a bicycle wheel by the axle in both hands.

3. Set the wheel spinning.

4. Have someone push you around the room.

The spinning wheel acts as a gyroscope, keeping you oriented in the same direction with respect to the room.