ESA’s Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer makes gravity slingshot manoeuvrer

A large European spacecraft, known as the Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer (Juice), is set to begin a significant phase of its journey to Jupiter with a flyby of the Earth and the Moon on Monday. This manoeuvrer, planned years in advance, is crucial for the spacecraft’s long journey, which will culminate in its arrival at Jupiter in July 2031. The flyby is a complex operation that involves the spacecraft passing close to both the Earth and the Moon. On Monday, Juice will fly by the Moon, and on Tuesday, it will pass by the Earth. The closest approach to Earth will occur around 23:57 UTC, with a distance of approximately 6,800 kilometres, which is closer than some satellites. This manoeuvrer is risky, akin to navigating a tight corridor at high speed with minimal room for error, as described by the European Space Agency (ESA). During its flyby of the Earth, the unmanned spacecraft may be visible from Europe with good binoculars or a telescope. It will appear as a rapidly moving dot against the backdrop of floating clouds. The gravity of the Earth will cause the spacecraft’s trajectory to bend, ensuring it continues on its path to Jupiter. In August [...]

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