![]() The sum of the kinetic energies of both bodies remains constant (see elastic collision). ![]() In both types of maneuver the energy transfer compared to the planet's total orbital energy is negligible. To decrease speed, the spacecraft approaches the planet traveling the opposite direction from planet's orbital velocity. To increase speed, the spacecraft approaches the planet in the same direction the planet is orbiting the Sun, and departs in the opposite direction. The spacecraft's speed increases as it approaches the planet and decreases as it leaves the planet. ![]() Possible outcomes of a gravity assist maneuver depending on the velocity vector and flyby position of the incoming spacecraftĪ gravity assist around a planet changes a spacecraft's velocity (relative to the Sun) by entering and leaving the gravitational sphere of influence of a planet. The gravity assist maneuver was first used in 1959 when the Soviet probe Luna 3 photographed the far side of Earth's Moon and it was used by interplanetary probes from Mariner 10 onward, including the two Voyager probes' notable flybys of Jupiter and Saturn. Any gain or loss of kinetic energy and linear momentum by a passing spacecraft is correspondingly lost or gained by the gravitational body, in accordance with Newton's Third Law. The "assist" is provided by the motion of the gravitating body as it pulls on the spacecraft. Gravity assistance can be used to accelerate a spacecraft, that is, to increase or decrease its speed or redirect its path. orbit around the Sun) and gravity of a planet or other astronomical object to alter the path and speed of a spacecraft, typically to save propellant and reduce expense. ![]() A gravity assist, gravity assist maneuver, swing-by, or generally a gravitational slingshot in orbital mechanics, is a type of spaceflight flyby which makes use of the relative movement (e.g. ![]()
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