Standard gravitational parameter

The Standard Gravitational Parameter, often denoted as μ (mu), is a value used in orbital mechanics that combines a planet or body's mass with the gravitational constant (which measures the strength of gravity). It simplifies calculations involving the motion of objects, like satellites or spacecraft, around that body. Instead of using both mass and gravity separately, scientists use μ, which directly relates to how quickly an object accelerates when falling toward the body. It makes predicting or analyzing orbits more straightforward, as it encapsulates the gravitational influence of the planet or celestial body into a single, useful number.