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Source- This post on Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (JUICE) Mission has been created based on the article “ Jupiter probe to stage first lunar-earth double fly-by manoeuvre” published in “The Hindu” on 21 August 2024.
Why in News?
The European Space Agency’s Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (JUICE) is returning towards Earth on August 19-20. It will perform a lunar-earth double fly-by manoeuvre, and then continue its journey to Jupiter.
About the JUICE Mission
1. About: Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (JUICE) mission is to explore Jupiter and its three large moons: Callisto, Europa, and Ganymede. These moons are of particular interest because they may harbour conditions that could support life.
2. Initiated by: This mission has been initiated by the European Space Agency (ESA).
3. Launch duration: The JUICE mission was launched in 2023. It will reach Jupiter and its moons by 2031, after an eight-year journey.
4. Significance: This mission is the first-ever lunar-Earth flyby combined with the first-ever double gravity assist manoeuvre.
| Double gravity assist manoeuvre as part of the mission Initially, JUICE will use the Moon’s gravity to set the correct path toward Earth (First Gravity assist manoeuvre). Then, it will use Earth’s gravity to slow down, and take a shortcut towards Venus. (Second assist manoeuvre) After this double flyby, JUICE will continue its journey to Jupiter with additional gravity assists from Venus in 2025 and Earth again in 2026 and 2029. These assists are crucial for steering JUICE without needing a large rocket. |
About gravity assist technique
1. About: Gravity assist is a method to change a spacecraft’s speed and direction by flying close to a planet or moon. This allows the spacecraft to use the gravitational pull to speed up, slow down, or change its course without using much fuel.
2. Significance of the technique: The gravity assist method is a proven way to navigate the solar system efficiently. For ex- By taking advantage of the Moon’s and Earth’s positions, JUICE can reach Jupiter with a smaller rocket and less fuel, making the mission more feasible.
3. Challenges: The double flyby is complex and risky. Any mistake could throw the spacecraft off course, requiring more fuel to correct, which could endanger the mission.
Difference between Gravity Assist Manoeuvre and Double Gravity Assist Manoeuvre
| Gravity Assist Manoeuvre | Double Gravity Assist Manoeuvre |
| 1. In a gravity assist, the spacecraft flies close to a single planet or moon. 2. The gravity of that body pulls on the spacecraft, altering its speed and direction. 3. This can either speed up or slow down the spacecraft without using additional fuel. | 1. In a double gravity assist, the spacecraft performs gravity assists with two different celestial bodies. 2. The first gravity assist changes the spacecraft’s trajectory and speed, preparing it for the second assist, which further refines its path. |
| Example: A spacecraft passing close to Jupiter to gain speed and head towards Saturn. | Example: A spacecraft using a gravity assist from Venus to gain speed, followed by another assist from Earth to adjust its course towards Mars |
Read more: JUICE Mission
UPSC Syllabus: Science and technology
