Attraction in Newtonian theory
Newtonian theory describes mutual attraction associated with mass. For point masses, its strength is proportional to the product of the masses and inversely proportional to the square of their separation. The same framework can be applied to falling objects and celestial motion.
References: [1]
An orbit still involves gravitation
An orbiting satellite remains subject to gravity, continually changing its direction of motion. Apparent weightlessness in orbit normally reflects shared free fall rather than the disappearance of gravitation. Understanding an orbit requires position, velocity and force together.
The description in general relativity
General relativity relates gravitation to spacetime geometry, influenced by matter and energy and governing the paths of bodies and light. The field equations of 1915 and the explanation of Mercury’s anomalous perihelion motion were important parts of its development.
Domains of application
Newtonian calculations remain excellent approximations in many weak-field, low-speed situations. Relativistic effects matter in stronger fields or when greater precision is needed. A broader theory identifies when earlier calculations are reliable rather than making every previous result unusable.
References: [2]