A satellite of mass m moves in a stable circular orbit of radius r about a planet of mass M. At a particular instant, onboard thrusters deliver an impulsive 50% increase to the satellite’s speed while its position is essentially unchanged. Neglect atmospheric drag and further thrust. Which of the following describes the satellite’s new orbit?
(a) It transitions to an elliptical orbit that remains bound to the planet.
(b) It moves on a hyperbolic trajectory and departs with positive total energy.
(c) It follows a parabolic trajectory and barely escapes the planet.
(d) It remains in a circular orbit of the same radius but with higher speed.