Is it possible to hit a golf ball on the surface of the moon and have it achieve a stable orbit around the moon?

I agree that the circular orbit velcity is VERY large, but, the answer to the probelm really has nothing much to do with the escape velocity.  After all, the idea is to achieve orbit, not escape the gravity well completely.

Having said that, can we rephrase the problem from an intellectual standpont?  Thus:

Starting at rest on the surface of the moon (low g, no air resistance, etc.) Can orbit be achieved by application of a short lived (i.e short time of application) unidirectional force of whatever magnitude is required?

Posted by Kenny M on 2005-12-28 09:38:36