Most spacecraft traveling to Jupiter travel on long looping routes through the solar system, passing close by multiple planets (and sometimes moons) to gain momentum and build speed – this process is known as gravity assist. NASA’s Galileo probe used this approach to explore Jupiter, uncover its magnetic field and radiation belt structures, hint at…
Spacecraft electric propulsion uses solar array power to ionize and accelerate inert gas propellants like Xenon (no, not from Superman’s home planet) for propulsion by Hall and gridded ion thrusters that gradually speed the spacecraft along its journey. EP systems possess very high specific impulse, or the amount by which a change in speed alters…
Spacecraft are vehicles capable of traveling into outer space and operating there, typically used for purposes such as Earth observation, navigation and colonization of outer space. Spacecraft employ fuel cells to produce electricity in space. This technology was first employed during the 1960s to power United States spacecraft. Definition Spacecraft are vehicles designed to operate…
Spacecraft is an umbrella term encompassing vehicles launched into space. This includes Earth-orbiting satellites, space probes and experiment capsules as well as orbiting modules of launch vehicles (e.g. the space shuttle). Spacecraft are engineered to operate in the demanding conditions of space, which require extensive protection from microgravity, extreme thermal variations and abrasion. Spaceship Spacecraft…
Scientists are still trying to gather answers about Mars. They wish to know whether the planet ever supported life and how its evolution might have progressed. Researchers must also understand what it will be like for future manned spacecraft to travel there, including weather forecasting and how to access safe drinking water sources. How long…
Spacecraft PNG images add clarity and professionalism to design projects in today’s visual-focused world. Perfect for presentations or websites, using Spacecraft PNG can help make an impressionful statement about you or your organization. Transparent files offer numerous advantages that make them a top choice for professional applications. Their transparency allows them to blend in seamlessly…
NASA spacecraft names are as symbolic as their missions are effective. While NASA follows certain guidelines when selecting mission names, creativity can still come into play here. Motherboard reports that the process for naming began in the early ’60s with the creation of the Project Designation Committee. Voyager NASA originally designed two spacecraft as part…
Spacecraft are designed starting with designs. These designs can take the form of rough sketches on napkins or more detailed engineering drawings created using software such as NX. While NX software is highly valued in aerospace design circles, its acquisition and learning can be quite costly. Siemens PLM Software has decided to give students at…
As throwing something into the air causes it to follow a curving path, so too do satellites require an equal balance of momentum from their rocket and gravity in order to remain in orbit. Only when this equilibrium has been found can spacecraft remain stationary within their orbital path. Some orbits, like those occupied by…
