Question

How can a satellite's speed decrease without its angular momentum changing?

Answer 1

QUESTION:

How can a satellite's speed decrease without its angular momentum changing?

SOLUTION:

Since angular momentum is

$$\widehat{L} = \bar{\mathrm{P}} \times (\mathrm{m}\bar{\mathrm{u}})$$

We can decrease a satellite's speed by increasing its mass, or increasing its distance from the planet

ANSWER:

We can decrease a satellite's speed by increasing its mass, or increasing its distance from the planet