Interplanetary probe Rosetta performs a series of maneuvers to reduce speed

Space probe Rosetta, pointing to the comet Churyumov-Gerasimenko for the study of this object, currently performs maneuvers to slow down, to further rapprochement with the comet. Reset the speed is done in order to synchronize the speed of the comet and the station, otherwise Rosetta can "slip" past the comet, and then the device will be lost to science.

For use including engine braking, only scheduled main switch 3 with the combustion of significant amounts of fuel (200 kg and above), and 6 small inclusions. Who has successfully completed 2 main switch (20 May and 4 June) and the last "big" switch is scheduled for June 18.

After first power unit engines slowed to 1046 kilometers per hour, after the second - up to 975 kilometers per hour. The initial speed of the interplanetary station was 2714 km / h. When approaching the comet relative velocity of the vehicle shall be at 3.6 km / h. This should happen in the beginning of August, when the Rosetta comet closer to 100 miles.

It is worth noting that the scientific equipment station gradually enters the operating mode, and so far everything runs smoothly .

The station itself Rosetta was launched into space in 2004, several years had been in "suspended animation", recently came out of hibernation, and is now in operation.

Via esa

Source: habrahabr.ru/post/226371/