A technique that uses a planetary atmosphere to slow down an orbiting spacecraft and place it in a circular orbit is called
A) a gravitational assist
B) aerobraking
C) orbital insertion
D) hydrodynamic deceleration

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The technique that uses a planetary atmosphere to slow down an orbiting spacecraft and place it in a circular orbit is called aerobraking. This involves the spacecraft using the friction and drag of the atmosphere to slow down and lower its orbit, ultimately placing it in a stable circular orbit around the planet. Gravitational assist involves using the gravity of a planet or moon to change the direction and speed of a spacecraft, while orbital insertion refers to the process of placing a spacecraft into a specific orbit without using the atmosphere. Hydrodynamic deceleration is not a commonly used term in spaceflight and is not directly related to this technique.

A Technique That Uses a Planetary Atmosphere to Slow Down