Methods and Models

This page summarizes the scientific models, constants, and assumptions used in the project in an academic format.

Models and Assumptions

  • Light-travel time uses a constant speed of light in vacuum.
  • Interplanetary distances use average or representative values.
  • Plane times assume a constant commercial cruising speed.
  • Log-scale views are used to compare orders of magnitude.
  • Planet positions are derived from VSOP87-based ephemerides (astronomy-engine).
  • Optional light-time correction and barycenter frames are provided for higher fidelity.

Light-travel time is obtained by dividing distance by the speed of light.

Constants and Units

  • Speed of light: 299,792.458 km/s
  • 1 AU (Earth-Sun): 149,597,870 km
  • 1 light-year: 9.4607 x 10^12 km
  • 1 parsec: 3.0857 x 10^13 km
  • Plane speed: 900 km/h (commercial jet average)

Limitations and Future Work

  • Some distances are averages and do not reflect orbital variation.
  • Plane times do not account for routing, wind, or layovers.
  • Simulations rely on simplified model assumptions.
  • Future work includes elliptical orbits and multi-body dynamics.

References

  • NASA Planetary Fact Sheet
  • ESA: Space Science data
  • IAU: Astronomical constants
  • CODATA 2018 physical constants

Numerical values are based on published references from official agencies.