The edge of space: Revisiting the Karman Line
Abstract
In this paper I revisit proposed definitions of the boundary between the Earth's atmosphere and outer space, considering orbital and suborbital trajectories used by space vehicles. In particular, I investigate the inner edge of outer space from historical, physical and technological viewpoints and propose 80 km as a more appropriate boundary than the currently popular 100 km Von Kármán line.
- Publication:
-
Acta Astronautica
- Pub Date:
- October 2018
- DOI:
- arXiv:
- arXiv:1807.07894
- Bibcode:
- 2018AcAau.151..668M
- Keywords:
-
- Astronautics;
- Karman line;
- Atmosphere;
- Mesosphere;
- Perigee;
- Boundaries;
- Astrophysics - Earth and Planetary Astrophysics
- E-Print:
- 17 pages, 4 figures
