Calculation
In astrodynamics the argument of periapsis ω can be calculated as follows:
- (if then )
where:
- is the vector pointing towards the ascending node (i.e. the z-component of is zero),
- is the eccentricity vector (the vector pointing towards the periapsis).
In the case of equatorial orbits, though the argument is strictly undefined, it is often assumed that:
where:
- is x-component of the eccentricity vector
In the case of circular orbits it is often assumed that the periapsis is placed at the ascending node and therefore ω=0.
Read more about this topic: Argument Of Periapsis
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