I. What is a Reaction Wheel? A reaction wheel is a type of flywheel used in spacecraft to control the orientation of the vehicle without the need for thrusters. It consists of a spinning wheel mounted on a spacecraft that can be rotated to produce torque in the opposite direction, allowing the spacecraft to change … Read more
I. What is Ascent Phase in Rocketry? The ascent phase in rocketry refers to the stage of a rocket launch where the vehicle is propelled upwards into space. It is a critical phase of the launch process as it involves overcoming Earth’s gravitational pull and reaching the desired altitude for the mission. During the ascent … Read more
I. What is a Hohmann Transfer Orbit? A Hohmann Transfer Orbit is a type of orbital maneuver used in spaceflight to transfer a spacecraft from one circular orbit to another. It was first proposed by German engineer Walter Hohmann in 1925 and has since become a fundamental concept in the field of astrodynamics. The Hohmann … Read more
I. What is a Launch and Entry Suit? A Launch and Entry Suit, also known as a LES, is a specialized type of spacesuit worn by astronauts during the launch and re-entry phases of a space mission. These suits are designed to protect astronauts from the extreme conditions experienced during these critical phases of space … Read more
I. What is Liquid Oxygen (LOX)? Liquid oxygen, commonly referred to as LOX, is a pale blue, cryogenic liquid with a boiling point of -183 degrees Celsius. It is a highly reactive substance that serves as a powerful oxidizer in various applications, including rocket propulsion. LOX is produced by cooling and compressing gaseous oxygen until … Read more
I. What is a Launch Vehicle? A launch vehicle, also known as a rocket, is a vehicle designed to transport payloads, such as satellites or spacecraft, into space. These vehicles are essential for launching objects into orbit around Earth or sending them on interplanetary missions. Launch vehicles are typically made up of multiple stages, each … Read more
I. What is Hot Staging in Rocketry? Hot staging is a technique used in rocketry where a rocket’s engines are ignited before the separation of stages. This is in contrast to cold staging, where the engines are ignited only after the separation of stages. Hot staging allows for a more continuous thrust during the transition … Read more
I. What is In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU)? In-Situ Resource Utilization (ISRU) is the process of utilizing resources found in space, such as on the Moon or Mars, to support human exploration and settlement. Instead of relying solely on Earth for supplies, ISRU aims to use the resources available in space to reduce the cost and … Read more
I. What is Staging in Rocketry? Staging in rocketry refers to the process of separating different sections of a rocket during its flight to achieve specific goals. This technique allows rockets to shed unnecessary weight and increase efficiency as they ascend into space. By discarding empty fuel tanks and other components, rockets can become lighter … Read more
What is Electric Propulsion Tug? Electric propulsion tug is a type of vessel that uses electric motors powered by batteries or other sources of electricity to provide propulsion. These tugs are designed to assist larger ships in maneuvering in ports, harbors, and other confined spaces where traditional propulsion systems may not be as efficient or … Read more