Planetary gravity assist

A planetary gravity assist, also known as a gravity slingshot, is a technique used to change a spacecraft’s speed and direction by passing close to a planet. As the spacecraft approaches, it’s pulled in by the planet’s gravity, gaining energy from the planet’s motion around the Sun. This transfer allows the spacecraft to accelerate without using additional fuel. After the maneuver, it leaves with a new trajectory and increased speed, making it an efficient way to reach distant destinations in our solar system.