Which of these objects is a solid debris from comet, asteroid etc. which travels to reach the surface of planet or moon?

Meteorite

Moon

Comet

Asteroid

Correct Answer : Meteorite

Explanation : Meteorite is a solid debris present in the solar system which is a result of aftermath from a collision of a comet, asteroid. They tend to travel to the planet or moon’s surface by surviving through the atmosphere. While entering the planet’s atmosphere, it becomes a meteor which glows up due to the friction causing it to radiate heat and energy.

Recently Updated in Spaceflight Mechanics Questions

In the heliocentric phase of the patched conic method, which orbit is followed by the spacecraft?

Circular

Parabolic

Elliptic

Hyperbolic

Correct Answer : Option (C) : Elliptic

Explanation : In the heliocentric phase of the patched conic method, the spacecraft follows the elliptical transfer orbit where sun is considered as the primary gravitational body. The interplanetary cruise is analyzed by two-body mechanics in heliocentric0ecliptic coordinate frame.

According to Laplace, how is the sphere of influence defined?

Ratio of central- body acceleration and perturbing acceleration

Ratio of gravitational field of the planet to the potential field of the object

Ratio of perturbing acceleration and central-body acceleration

Ratio of the potential field of the object to the gravitational field of the planet

Correct Answer : Option (C) : Ratio of perturbing acceleration and central-body acceleration

Explanation : According to Laplace, Sphere of Influence (SOI) is described as the ratio of perturbing acceleration and central-body acceleration.

In order to arrive from the Earth to the target planet for example Venus, which of these arrival orbits it used?

Hyperbolic

Circular

Elliptical

Parabolic

Correct Answer : Option (A) : Hyperbolic

Explanation : The arrival trajectory inside the target planet’s sphere of influence is done using a hyperbolic orbit which is analyzed in inertial planet-centered frame. As soon as the spacecraft enters the target planet’s sphere of influence, the sun’s gravity is turned off and planet’s gravity is turned on.