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arXiv:1807.07894astro-ph.EP

The edge of space: Revisiting the Karman Line

Jonathan C. McDowell

Abstract

In this paper I revisit proposed definitions of the boundary between the Earth's atmosphere and outer space, considering orbital and suborbital trajectories used by space vehicles. In particular, I investigate the inner edge of outer space from historical, physical and technological viewpoints and propose 80 kilometers as a more appropriate boundary than the currently popular 100 km Von Kármán line.

arXiv comments
17 pages, 4 figures
Journal reference
Acta Astronautica 151 (2018) 668-677
DOI
doi:10.1016/j.actaastro.2018.07.003
Subjects
astro-ph.EPEarth and Planetary Astrophysics

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    • Cue the ultimate low orbit satellite > It is undesirable to have a definition that will change with improving technology, so one might argue that the correct way to define space is to pick the lowest altitude at which any satellite can remain in orbit, and thus the lowest…

      the8472View on HNParent context

  2. Virgin Galactic successfully reaches space 1 comment

    • > The edge of space: Revisiting the Karman Line > Jonathan C. McDowell > In this paper I revisit proposed definitions of the boundary between the Earth's atmosphere and outer space, considering orbital and suborbital trajectories used by space vehicles. In particular, I…

      wolf550eView on HNParent context

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