Delta-V (spacecraft)

Delta-V (ΔV) is a measure of how much a spacecraft can change its velocity, or speed and direction, through engine burns. It represents the total "push" available to perform maneuvers like leaving Earth orbit, changing course, or entering another planet's orbit. Think of it as the spacecraft’s fuel and engine capability combined, determining what missions it can accomplish. Higher delta-V means more complex or distant journeys are possible. Engineers carefully calculate delta-V to ensure the spacecraft has enough power to reach its destination and complete its objectives efficiently.