Gravity-assist fly-by (vectors)
This interactive simulator explores Gravity-Assist Fly-By in Gravity & Orbits. Planet frame |u_out|=|u_in| rotated by δ; star frame v = V + u — Δ|v| from moving planet. Use the controls to change the scenario; watch the visualization and any graphs or readouts to connect the model with lectures, labs, and homework.
Who it's for: Best once you already know the basic definitions and want to build intuition. Typical context: Gravity & Orbits.
Key terms
- gravity
- assist
- fly
- gravity assist flyby
- orbits
How it works
Same physics that flings Voyager and other craft: free momentum transfer from a moving planet.
More from Gravity & Orbits
Other simulators in this category — or see all 14.
Orbit Simulator
Launch satellites. Achieve circular, elliptical orbits, or escape.
Solar System
Interactive scaled model with time controls and orbital data.
Gravity Sandbox
Place masses and watch N-body gravitational interactions unfold.
Kepler's Laws
Elliptical orbits with equal-area sweeps visualized.
Escape Velocity
Launch from different planets and see trajectory results.
Gravitational Lensing
Massive objects bending light. Visual distortion effects.