In astrodynamics or celestial dynamics orbital state vectors (sometimes state vectors) are cartesian vectors of position and velocity that together with their time (epoch) uniquely determine the trajectory of a body in space.
Read more about Orbital State Vectors: Frame of Reference, Position Vector
Famous quotes containing the word state:
“Governments which have a regard to the common interest are constituted in accordance with strict principles of justice, and are therefore true forms; but those which regard only the interest of the rulers are all defective and perverted forms, for they are despotic, whereas a state is a community of freemen.”
—Aristotle (384–322 B.C.)