Calculating Orbital Velocity and Probe Velocity in a Hohmann Transfer to Neptune

[garyman]

A Hohmann transfer orbit is used to send a spacecraft to neptune. However the positions of the other planets were not taken into consideration. The craft approaches Jupiter at an angle of 75 degrees to Jupiter's orbit. Calculate (a) the orbital velocity of Jupiter, (b) the probe's velocity upon reaching Jupiter.

Not really sure how to start this question. Does anyone else have any ideas?

 

[alphysicist]

Hi garyman,

A Hohmann transfer orbit is used to send a spacecraft to neptune. However the positions of the other planets were not taken into consideration. The craft approaches Jupiter at an angle of 75 degrees to Jupiter's orbit. Calculate (a) the orbital velocity of Jupiter, (b) the probe's velocity upon reaching Jupiter.

Not really sure how to start this question. Does anyone else have any ideas?

I would say the starting point is to calculate the parameters of the elliptical Hohmann orbit using the beginning and ending orbital radii, and using the equations for the velocity impulses needed. However, it's not clear to me what quantities are to be considered as "given". What quantities are you allowed to look up?