Published , Modified Abstract on NASA's Lucy to Fly Past Thousands of Objects for Earth Gravity Assist Original source
NASA's Lucy to Fly Past Thousands of Objects for Earth Gravity Assist
NASA's Lucy mission is set to fly past thousands of objects for Earth gravity assist. The spacecraft will explore the Trojan asteroids, which are a group of asteroids that share Jupiter's orbit around the sun. The mission is named after the fossilized human ancestor, Lucy, as it aims to uncover the origins of our solar system.
What are Trojan asteroids?
Trojan asteroids are a group of asteroids that share Jupiter's orbit around the sun. They are named after the Trojan War in Greek mythology, where the Greeks and Trojans fought over the city of Troy. The asteroids are divided into two groups, the leading and trailing Trojans, which are located 60 degrees ahead and behind Jupiter, respectively.
Why are Trojan asteroids important?
Trojan asteroids are important because they are believed to be remnants of the early solar system. They are thought to have formed around the same time as Jupiter and are believed to have been captured by Jupiter's gravity. Studying these asteroids can provide insights into the formation and evolution of our solar system.
What is the Lucy mission?
The Lucy mission is a NASA mission that aims to explore the Trojan asteroids. The spacecraft will perform a flyby of seven Trojan asteroids and one main belt asteroid. The mission is named after the fossilized human ancestor, Lucy, as it aims to uncover the origins of our solar system.
What is Earth gravity assist?
Earth gravity assist is a technique used by spacecraft to gain speed and change direction. The spacecraft uses the gravity of Earth to slingshot itself towards its destination. This technique is used to conserve fuel and reduce the time it takes to reach the destination.
How will Lucy use Earth gravity assist?
Lucy will use Earth gravity assist to gain speed and change direction towards the Trojan asteroids. The spacecraft will perform three Earth gravity assists, one in 2023, one in 2024, and one in 2025. These gravity assists will help the spacecraft reach its destination and perform its mission.
What will Lucy discover?
Lucy will discover the composition and structure of the Trojan asteroids. The spacecraft will use its instruments to study the asteroids' surface, interior, and environment. The mission aims to answer questions about the formation and evolution of our solar system.
In conclusion, NASA's Lucy mission is set to fly past thousands of objects for Earth gravity assist. The spacecraft will explore the Trojan asteroids, which are a group of asteroids that share Jupiter's orbit around the sun. The mission is named after the fossilized human ancestor, Lucy, as it aims to uncover the origins of our solar system. By studying the Trojan asteroids, Lucy will provide insights into the formation and evolution of our solar system.
FAQs
1. What is the Lucy mission?
The Lucy mission is a NASA mission that aims to explore the Trojan asteroids.
2. What are Trojan asteroids?
Trojan asteroids are a group of asteroids that share Jupiter's orbit around the sun.
3. Why are Trojan asteroids important?
Trojan asteroids are important because they are believed to be remnants of the early solar system.
4. What is Earth gravity assist?
Earth gravity assist is a technique used by spacecraft to gain speed and change direction.
5. How will Lucy use Earth gravity assist?
Lucy will use Earth gravity assist to gain speed and change direction towards the Trojan asteroids.
6. What will Lucy discover?
Lucy will discover the composition and structure of the Trojan asteroids.
This abstract is presented as an informational news item only and has not been reviewed by a subject matter professional. This abstract should not be considered medical advice. This abstract might have been generated by an artificial intelligence program. See TOS for details.