Delta-v Budget

A Delta-v budget represents the total amount of change in velocity a spacecraft needs to perform its mission, including launching, maneuvering, orbiting, and landing. It's like a fuel allowance for all these moves; the more complex or distant the mission, the higher the delta-v required. Efficient planning of the delta-v budget helps ensure the spacecraft has enough propulsion energy to reach its objectives and return safely, while also considering fuel limitations and spacecraft design. Essentially, it’s a detailed accounting of the velocity changes needed to successfully complete the mission.