Space modules must be able to switch orbits to explore the solar system
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Navigating between different orbits can be difficult when a spacecraft is orbiting a planet or sailing between a series of satellites, but a trick from knot theory may come in handy. This can be used to identify points called heteroclinic connections, where aircraft can move from one orbit to another without consuming precious fuel.
“We know that these heteroclinic connections are often several in a pair of orbits, but…
Source: www.newscientist.com