Read the Fine Print
Slingshot to the Outer Planets
(Complete Item Description)
- Abstract:
Students are introduced to the engineering challenges involved with interplanetary space travel. In particular, they learn about the gravity assist or "slingshot" maneuver often used by engineers to send spacecraft to the outer planets. Using magnets and ball bearings to simulate a planetary flyby, students investigate what factors influence the deflection angle of a gravity assist maneuver.
- Subject:
- Mathematics and Statistics, Science and Technology
- Grade Level:
- Primary
- Collection:
- TeachEngineering