Gravity Sim.

Tutorial on Gravity Simulator

Dive into using "The Solar System" preset:

1. Browse the scenario list and select The Solar System on gravitysimulator.org.

2. Open the GSim 101 instructions and select the instructions under “Using the Sim” https://testtubegames.com/gsim101/?p=controls

3. Optionally, customize simulation elements: tweak masses, initial velocities, or add/remove planets.


Example Controls

• Change mass: Note that more mass = stronger pull (like a bigger magnet).
  

• Set the velocity for the planet; Give your planet a little push so it can orbit instead of diving/crashing straight in.
  

• Play/Pause: Start or stop time and observe what happens after each interval. 

• Zoom & Drag: Move around the space and zoom in or out to observe the objects better.

How does gravity play an important role in this simulator?

Notice that every object pulls on every other one, therefore we have introduced gravity’s pull. Larger objects, such as stars, have a stronger gravitational pull. This pull gets weaker with distance, so the farther apart two objects are, the weaker their pull will be. This simulator also helps to set orbits in which pushing a planet to the right will make it go around the star. 

Gravity is difficult to visualize because it is not a visible concept, but this simulator shows how objects move because of the force of gravity. Create your own system with your own Sun and planets!