How Do Spacecraft Slow Down- We Asked a NASA Technologist

When it comes to spacecraft, slowing down or decelerating is a crucial aspect of space exploration missions. To shed light on this topic, we asked a NASA technologist to explain the various methods used to slow down spacecraft.

According to the NASA technologist, there are several techniques employed to achieve deceleration in space. Here are a few of the most commonly used methods:

Atmospheric Friction: When a spacecraft is entering a planet's atmosphere, it experiences drag or resistance due to the friction between the spacecraft and the atmosphere. This resistance helps slow down the spacecraft. However, this method is only applicable when a planet or moon has a substantial atmosphere, like Earth or Mars.

Aerobraking: Aerobraking is a technique that utilizes the planet's atmosphere to slow down a spacecraft. By intentionally dipping into the planet's upper atmosphere, the spacecraft experiences atmospheric drag, causing it to lose velocity. This method is commonly used by spacecraft to enter orbit around planets like Mars.