orbit

An orbit is the path that one object in space takes around another due to gravitational attraction. For example, the Earth orbits the Sun because the Sun's gravity pulls the Earth toward it, while the Earth's forward motion keeps it from crashing into the Sun. This balance between gravitational pull and forward speed allows planets, moons, and satellites to maintain stable orbits. Orbits can be circular or elliptical and vary in distance and speed depending on the objects involved.