Orbital maneuvers

Orbital maneuvers are deliberate adjustments made to a spacecraft's path or speed in space, typically using thrusters or engines. These maneuvers are planned to change the spacecraft’s orbit—for example, raising or lowering its altitude, altering its direction, or timing arrivals at specific locations like planets or stations. By applying controlled forces, engineers ensure the spacecraft reaches its intended destination efficiently and safely. Think of it as steering a car, but in the vacuum of space—fine-tuning the trajectory to achieve specific mission goals.