4 ms·
I think this idea is essentially an example of a "gravitational slingshot". I found it interesting that such a system could be used to "accelerate delicate and
by munchler 3y ago
I think this idea is essentially an example of a "gravitational slingshot".
I found it interesting that such a system could be used to "accelerate delicate and fragile objects to a velocity of 2000 km/sec at an acceleration of 10,000 g, without doing any damage to the objects. ... So a large space ship with human passengers and normal mechanical construction could easily survive the 10,000 g acceleration." This seems counterintuitive, but since the object is in freefall the entire time, I guess it makes sense.
- Qem 3y agoThe 10,000g would be approximately uniform through the entire volume of the ship, so no damage. In a regular rocket, the acceleration would have to be transmitted to passengers and cargo through the normal force, and that would crush you.
- mrkstu 3y agoMakes sense, though if you'd asked me before your explanation, I'd have thought the idea of accelerating at high speed without leaving free fall impossible.
- perihelions 3y agoIt's a free fall that leaves the system at a different speed than it arrives!
- z3t4 3y agoA gravitational assist/slingshot is just a transfer, think of cogs in a machine - by using axles and cogs you can change the speed and direction of the forces. source: KSP player