Slingshot depends only on the rocket having the right trajectory as it approaches the large object. If you can aim a cannon to put it there then it will get the gravity assist.Jonathan212 said:Is the gravity sling possible without rocket propulsion which dynamically guides the object to the right point? Ie, if instead of using a rocket, you shoot the object with an accurately aimed cannon from the moon, will it either hit the planet or miss it but never get slung/accelerated substantially?
Depends on whether or not they were already on the right trajectory.Jonathan212 said:Did the spaceships that used the slingshot make a turn with the rocket propulsion to get the right angle of approach?
The gravity sling is a theoretical concept that involves using the gravitational pull of a celestial body, such as a planet or moon, to slingshot a spacecraft in a desired direction. This technique takes advantage of the fact that objects in space are affected by each other's gravitational force, allowing a spacecraft to gain or lose speed and change its trajectory without using fuel.
Yes, in most cases, the gravity sling technique does require some level of rocket guidance. While the gravitational pull of a celestial body can provide a significant boost to a spacecraft's speed and direction, it is not always enough to precisely control the spacecraft's trajectory. Therefore, a combination of gravity sling and rocket guidance is often used to achieve the desired result.
Yes, the gravity sling technique can potentially be used for interstellar travel. However, it would require precise calculations and a series of gravitational slingshots from multiple celestial bodies to achieve the desired speed and direction. This would also require advanced technology and a long journey time.
While the gravity sling technique has been successfully used in space missions, there are some risks associated with it. These include the potential for miscalculations, which could result in the spacecraft missing its target or colliding with a celestial body. There is also the risk of the spacecraft being affected by other forces, such as solar winds or gravitational pull from other objects, which could alter its trajectory.
The gravity sling and traditional rocket launch are two different methods of achieving space travel. A traditional rocket launch involves using a rocket engine to propel a spacecraft into space, while the gravity sling technique uses the gravitational pull of a celestial body to slingshot the spacecraft. The gravity sling method requires less fuel and can potentially achieve higher speeds, but it also requires precise calculations and guidance to be effective.