What is the specific angular momentum of an Iridium satellite if the orbit is in an elliptical orbit that has a semi-major axis and eccentricity of 46,000 km and 0.85 respectively. Gravitational parameter of earth is 398,600 km3/s2?

Correct Answer: 71,331 km2/s
Given, Gravitational Parameter (μ) = 398,600 km3/s2 Semi-major axis (a) = 46,000 km Eccentricity (e) = 0.85 From orbit equation for ellipse, Specific angular momentum (h) = (μa(1-e2))1/2 = (398,600*46,000*(1-0.852))1/2 = 71,331 km2/s