Convert Meter/Second (m/s) to Kilometer/Second (km/s) instantly.
About these units
Meter/Second (m/s)
The meter per second is the SI unit of speed, representing the distance traveled in meters over one second. It is the foundational unit for physics, engineering, and scientific measurement because it derives directly from SI definitions of distance and time. In physics, m/s appears everywhere: from the velocity of falling objects and planetary orbits to the propagation of waves and fluid flow. It is the preferred unit when describing speeds mathematically because it integrates cleanly with SI-based equations involving energy, force, and momentum. Although not commonly used in everyday life—where km/h or mph dominate—m/s is essential for precision. Weather forecasts, for example, often use m/s for wind speeds in scientific analyses even if the public version converts to more familiar units. The clarity and mathematical consistency of m/s make it indispensable in scientific communication.
Kilometer/Second (km/s)
A kilometer per second represents a very high speed—1,000 meters every second—and is particularly important in astronomy, planetary science, and astrophysics. Orbital velocities around planets, escape velocities, solar winds, and the motion of stars relative to each other are commonly measured in km/s. This scale captures speeds far beyond terrestrial transportation. For example, Earth orbits the Sun at roughly 30 km/s, and meteoroids entering Earth's atmosphere may arrive at speeds between 11 and 72 km/s. km/s is a natural step up from m/s when describing the motion of celestial bodies.