Game + simulation

Gravity Slingshot Challenge

Gravity assist · velocity · trajectory · momentum exchange

Learning outcomeUse a planetary flyby to redirect a spacecraft and change its heliocentric speed.

Learning challenge

Planet orbital speed24.00 km/sFlyby turn angle60 °Approach speed8.00 km/s

Turn contribution24.0 km/s

Speed proxy25.3 km/s

GeometryShallow turn

Learning focus

Change the flyby geometry to see how a gravity assist can redirect and change spacecraft speed.

Δv proxy ≈ 2vₚ sin(δ/2)