Hohmann Transfer Calculator
Calculate the required delta-V (change in velocity) and transfer time for an efficient Hohmann transfer between two circular orbits around Earth. Assumes impulsive burns and coplanar orbits. Calculate the required delta-V (change in velocity) and transfer time for an efficient Hohmann transfer between two circular orbits around Earth. Assumes impulsive burns and coplanar orbits.
Interactive Hohmann Transfer
Initial Orbit
Transfer Orbit
Final Orbit
Burn Points
Move your cursor to explore all orbits. Hover near any orbit to see details.
Hover over the orbit visualization to see details
Hohmann Transfer Theory & Notes
- A Hohmann transfer is an orbital maneuver using two engine impulses (burns) to move between two coplanar circular orbits.
- It is generally the most fuel-efficient two-burn maneuver for this type of transfer.
- The transfer occurs along an elliptical orbit that is tangential to both the initial and final circular orbits.
- ΔV₁: First burn (at periapsis or apoapsis of the transfer ellipse) changes the spacecraft's velocity to enter the transfer ellipse from the initial orbit.
- ΔV₂: Second burn (at the opposite apsis of the transfer ellipse) changes velocity again to match the final circular orbit.
- Altitude vs. Distance: This calculator supports two input modes:
- Altitude: Height above Earth's surface (e.g., 400 km for LEO)
- Distance: Measured from Earth's center (e.g., 6771 km for LEO)
- Conversion: Distance = Altitude + Earth radius (6371 km)
- Assumes instantaneous velocity changes (impulsive burns) and neglects atmospheric drag and gravitational perturbations.
- Calculations are specific to transfers around Earth.
- Transfer time is half the orbital period of the transfer ellipse.
Open Source & Transparent
This tool is open source and the underlying logic is fully transparent. You can view the source code, understand the calculations, and even contribute improvements to make it better for everyone.
View Source Code