For objects in orbit of Earth, does the force of gravity vary depending on where the object is in its orbit? Would astronauts be slightly taller at one point of an orbit than at another point (assuming they’re ‘standing’ with feet towards Earth)?

Question

For objects in orbit of Earth, does the force of gravity vary depending on where the object is in its orbit? Would astronauts be slightly taller at one point of an orbit than at another point (assuming they’re ‘standing’ with feet towards Earth)?

In: Physics

Answer 1

Yes. Mass is imperfectly distributed. The earth bulges around the equator as it spins, the earth’s tilt varies, and other bodies around the earth are also dynamic, like the moon, or asteroids.