Convert Mile/Second (mi/s) to Cosmic Velocity - First (v₁) instantly.
About these units
Mile/Second (mi/s)
A mile per second is an extraordinarily fast speed—3,600 mph—far beyond any ground vehicle. This unit appears primarily in discussions of orbital mechanics, rocket propulsion, and reentry dynamics. Projectiles in theoretical physics or high-energy impact modeling may also be described in miles per second. The unit's infrequent use reflects its specialized nature, but its dramatic magnitude makes it compelling for illustrating the extremes of velocity attainable in space travel and astrophysics.
Cosmic Velocity - First (v₁)
The first cosmic velocity is the minimum horizontal speed an object must achieve to enter a stable orbit around a planetary body without additional propulsion. For Earth, this value is about 7.9 km/s. At this speed, an object's forward motion precisely balances with the gravitational pull downward, creating continuous free-fall—the essence of orbital motion. This velocity is foundational in orbital mechanics. Spacecraft reaching Low Earth Orbit (LEO) must achieve at least this horizontal speed, even if their vertical ascent profile varies. Understanding v₁ was essential in the early space age: it represented the threshold between atmospheric flight and true spaceflight, marking human entry into the orbital era.