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Physics

Escape Speed Calculator

Estimate escape speed from a spherical body without atmosphere.

SI units shown beside each fieldIdeal model explained below

Physical quantities

Runs on your device

CALCULATED QUANTITY

Your result

Let’s calculate.

Use the Calculate button to see your result.

Review the method below for assumptions and conventions.

How to use this tool

  1. Enter central body mass, distance from center.
  2. Select Calculate to view the result.
  3. Check the method and assumptions below before using the result.

The method, explained

Escape speed = √(2GM/r); G = 6.67430 × 10⁻¹¹.

A WORKED EXAMPLE

Using central body mass = 5.972e+24 kg, distance from center = 6371000 m, the result is 11185.9779 m/s. Change these example inputs to match your task; use the method above to check each step.

What to keep in mind

Newtonian model ignoring other bodies and propulsion losses. An idealized educational model using the stated SI units. Real systems may need additional forces, losses or experimental measurements. Not a safety or equipment specification.

Common questions

Which inputs does this calculation need?

Estimate escape speed from a spherical body without atmosphere. Enter central body mass in kg, distance from center in m. The filled example is editable and is not a saved personal record.

How should I interpret the result?

Newtonian model ignoring other bodies and propulsion losses. An idealized educational model using the stated SI units. Real systems may need additional forces, losses or experimental measurements. Not a safety or equipment specification.

Methodology maintained by ClarityKit. How these tools are built and checked.