Revealing mistake: When McCoy is examining Charlie in sickbay, several shots of the diagnostic panel show a clear reflection of Charlie's upright profile. But Charlie isn't sitting up during the exam - he's lying flat on the table. The close-ups of the panel were shot while actor Robert Walker Jr. was either sitting or standing nearby. (00:04:10)
Revealing mistake: As Charlie watches the pole lowering into a square hole in the deck, the wood grain of the set piece is visible. The wood has been painted gray/silver to look like metal. (00:06:06)
Chosen answer: If they're in orbit, they're being pulled along by the planet's gravity well, therefore, impulse engines would only be used for minor corrections and would be "on standby" while in orbit, but not active. (Like keeping your car idling without revving the engine and creating plumes of exhaust).
Captain Defenestrator
Thank you for the info.
Movie Nut