
Visible crew/equipment: When Dr. Van Gelder tells Kirk that he wants asylum and his word that he won't be taken back to Tantalus, in the wideshot from behind Kirk as he moves to his right the two tape marks can be seen on the floor beside Van Gelder's feet.
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