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airbuzz
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How does fly-by works? How is it possible that after fly-by I have more energy than before? Where do I take it?
Integral said:The passing satellite picks up the ORBITAL velocity (at least a portion of it) of the body it is passing. You are correct that all energy gained from entering the gravity well of the planetary body is lost on exit. But all the time the satellite is in the gravitational influence of the planetary body it is being drug along with the orbital motion. This is the slingshot velocity.
A fly-by of planets, also known as a gravitational slingshot or gravity assist maneuver, is a technique used by spacecraft to gain speed and change direction by utilizing the gravitational pull of a planet. The spacecraft flies close to the planet, using its gravity to increase its velocity and redirect its path.
A fly-by of planets can provide energy to a spacecraft in two ways. Firstly, the spacecraft gains kinetic energy as it accelerates due to the gravitational pull of the planet. Secondly, it can also conserve energy by using the planet's gravity to deflect its path, saving fuel that would otherwise be needed for course corrections.
The planets that are most commonly used for fly-bys are Jupiter and Saturn, due to their large size and strong gravitational pull. However, other planets such as Venus, Earth, and Neptune have also been used for fly-bys in various space missions.
Fly-bys of planets allow spacecraft to travel further and faster than they could by using their own propulsion systems. This technique also allows for more efficient use of fuel and can extend the lifespan of the spacecraft. Additionally, fly-bys can provide valuable opportunities for scientific research and data collection.
While fly-bys of planets have proven to be a successful and useful technique in space exploration, there are also some risks and challenges involved. These include the potential for the spacecraft to collide with a moon or other object in the planet's orbit, as well as the precise calculations and timing required for a successful fly-by maneuver.