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The Lagrangian points are the five positions in an orbital configuration where a small object affected only by gravity can theoretically be stationary relative to two larger objects (such as a satellite with respect to the Sun and Earth): Image: The Lagrange Points (NASA)

Lagrange Applet (2)

An article of N. Treitz inspired me to write this applet.

The three curves represent the forces (positive to the right, negative to the left): F1 (red) by the mass M1 (red) on the mass m at x=x1, and distance r1 F2 (blue) by the mass M2 (blue) on the mass m at x=x2, and distance r2 F (green) the resulting sum of the forces on m.

The distances x₁ and x₂ from the center of mass (x=0) are related:

	Select from the view options of the menu.
	You may use the key "r", or "R" (shift key and "r", faster) to rotate the system around the center of mass. Click the applet first ! Select "Reset" to return.

Updated: 2007, Oct 16