2007-10-17 00:37:05 · 4 answers · asked by Akimbo 4 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space
The best way to understand this is to view a short video made by Caltech as part of their "Mechanical Universe" series. The episode number 24 is called, "Navigating in Space."
It shows very clear graphic depictions of exactly how this phenomenon works and how we use it. You do not need any math skills to understand it, but some of the Newtonian math is explained beautifully.
I will provide the link in the source section..
2007-10-17 06:51:13 · answer #1 · answered by Aleph Null 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When a probe is to be "sling-shot," its trajectory is planned so that the probe takes advantage of a planet or moon's gravitational pull.
The probe is set on an approach, and accelerates as it nears the celestial body. Its trajectory is modified since the celestial body is accelerating the probe in different directions at once. If the probe does not have a high enough velocity before it reaches the celestial body, it needs to pass by further away or it can be accelerated into the celestial body. If the velocity and distance is just right, the probe will be greatly accelerated, and will be ejected in a hyperbolic arc.
The best way to visualize this is to imagine someone running really fast and then grabbing onto a nearby pole for a little bit. Imagine the runner's arm pulling them closer to the pole at the same time. The runner will gain some speed and will incur a change in direction as well.
2007-10-17 00:50:20 · answer #2 · answered by Stuey 4 · 2⤊ 0⤋
New Horizons Space probe on way to Pluto used this technique with Jupiter.
2007-10-17 00:59:22 · answer #3 · answered by Tony W 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's a manouver where the craft allows itself to be attracted by the gravity of a body and plots a course around it with sufficient speed that it can escape from the gravity well with added speed (and in the direction of choice) rather than being dragged into an orbit
2007-10-17 00:50:37 · answer #4 · answered by Keith B 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋