Laythe, one of the moons of Jool in the Kerbal Space Program universe, has a surface gravity of 7.85 m/s², which is equivalent to approximately 0.8 times the gravity of Kerbin (0.8 g).
Understanding Laythe's Gravitational Pull
The surface gravity of a celestial body is a crucial factor for spacecraft design, mission planning, and understanding how objects behave on its surface. Laythe's gravity is less than Kerbin's, meaning that things will feel lighter, and less thrust is required for launch or landing.
Here's a detailed breakdown of Laythe's key gravitational and physical properties:
| Property | Value | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Surface Gravity | 7.85 m/s² (0.8 g) | The acceleration due to gravity experienced at the surface. |
| Escape Velocity | 2,801.43 m/s | The minimum speed needed to escape Laythe's gravitational pull. |
| Sidereal Rotation Period | 52,980.879 s (2 d 2 h 43 m 0.9 s) | The time it takes for Laythe to complete one rotation on its axis relative to distant stars. |
These values are essential for Kerbal Space Program players to calculate delta-v requirements for maneuvers, design efficient landers, and plan aerobraking or atmospheric flight operations, as Laythe possesses a breathable atmosphere. Its lower gravity compared to Kerbin makes ascents and descents less fuel-intensive, while its significant escape velocity still requires substantial power to leave its sphere of influence.
For more information on Laythe's characteristics and its role within the Kerbal Space Program universe, you can refer to the Laythe Kerbal Space Program Wiki.
