A long-distance, unmanned probe is sent to another planet. To keep it oriented c

Question

A long-distance, unmanned probe is sent to another planet. To keep it oriented correctly, the probe is given a lot of spin during the early part of the trip. However, when the probe is getting close to its destination, the spin is no longer desired. Two very long cables with mass at the end of each are extended while the probe is still in deep space. Once oriented, the cables are released and the probe begins its landing sequence.

(a) Explain qualitatively why the spinning will help the probe be oriented correctly. Describe the underlying physics concepts using equations and diagrams as needed.

(b) Explain what is accomplished by the action of extending and releasing the cables near the end of the probe's flight. Describe the underlying physics concepts using equations and diagrams as needed. Do the masses need to be a significant portion of the probe's mass for this procedure to be effective?

(c) What happens to all of the probe's linear momentum when it lands on its destination planet? Describe qualitatively in terms of physics principles what happens during the landing.

Explanation / Answer

Solution:

(a) In space, there is no gravity for the probe to direct itself and have a safe landing. Therefore one has to create an airtifical gravity When the probe spins, this creates centrifugal force which acts on the probe this simulating the effect of gravity.

(b) This is to conter-act the acceleration and provide a stable landing for the probe.

(c) The linear momentum gained by the spaceship is equal in magnitude to that lost by the planet, so the spacecraft gains velocity and the planet loses velocity. However, the planet's enormous mass compared to the spacecraft makes the resulting change in its speed negligibly small. These effects on the planet are so slight (because planets are so much more massive than spacecraft) that they can be ignored in the calculation

Note: I am still editing.... will provide the necessary equation.

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse A
• Subjects

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.