What occurs when the velocity of an object in orbit increases?

When the velocity of an object in orbit increases, the object experiences a change in its orbital path, typically leading it to move into a higher orbit. In orbital mechanics, this principle is grounded in the relationship between speed and gravitational pull. When an object's speed increases, the centrifugal force generated by the motion can counteract the gravitational pull more effectively, allowing the object to ascend to a higher altitude where the gravitational influence decreases.

In essence, by increasing its velocity, the object can break free from the gravitational constraints of its current orbital altitude and move to a path that is further away from the central body it is orbiting. This phenomenon is crucial for spacecraft that need to adjust their orbits for various mission objectives, such as reaching a stable position for observational purposes or preparing for interplanetary travel.

Other scenarios like deorbiting, re-entry, or stabilization typically involve either a decrease in velocity or specific alterations to trajectory, making them less relevant in the context of increasing orbital speed.