Multiple choice general knowledge science & technology

To reach another planet, a spacecraft must be aimed:

  1. At the planet

  2. Where the planet will be when the spacecraft reaches it

  3. Midway between the two

  4. Some distance before the planet
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

Because spacecraft travel time takes months or years and planets move continuously along their orbits, you must aim where the planet will be when the spacecraft arrives. This is called 'leading the target' - similar to shooting a moving object in hunting.

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