Hacker Newsnew | past | comments | ask | show | jobs | submitlogin

I don't understand the comment about comets/asteroids. Why would they be a viable way for interstellar travel? In order to catch one, you need to match speed with it, and then you are already on your way. You can't somehow hitch a ride with interstellar comets/asteroids and avoid using energy.


You can use them for gravity assist, and save on propellant. You can't literally "hitch a ride", but the next best is to steal some of their momentum, which is precisely what a gravity assist does.


Well sure, but I guess you could do the same with planets inside the solar system too? No need to wait for interstellar asteroids/comets.


Wiki gravity assist




Guidelines | FAQ | Lists | API | Security | Legal | Apply to YC | Contact

Search: