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Engineering Calculator

Hohmann Transfer Calculator

Calculate delta-V requirements for Hohmann transfer orbits between two circular orbits. Includes transfer time, fuel mass estimates, and orbit visualization.

hohmann transferorbit transferdelta-v calculatororbital mechanics

What It Does

The Hohmann Transfer Calculator computes the minimum-energy two-impulse transfer between two circular orbits. Enter your initial and final orbit altitudes, and the calculator returns the total delta-V, individual burn magnitudes, transfer orbit semi-major axis, transfer time, and fuel mass fraction for your spacecraft.

Key Features

  • Two-impulse delta-V breakdown with individual burn magnitudes
  • Transfer time calculation and orbit period comparison
  • Fuel mass fraction estimate based on specific impulse input
  • Support for any central body (Earth, Moon, Mars, custom)

Why It Matters

Hohmann transfers are the foundation of orbital mechanics mission planning. Every mission that changes orbit altitude — from LEO to GEO, Earth to Mars, or orbit raising after launch — starts with a Hohmann transfer calculation. Getting the delta-V budget right early in the design process prevents costly redesigns later when propulsion system sizing reveals insufficient margin.

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