The Parker Solar Probe’s new top speed could get you from NYC to LA in just 20 seconds. It’s not done yet.

  • PetDinosaurs@lemmy.world
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    1 year ago

    That’s a pretty good answer. I was definitely overthinking it.

    A little correction. They would be slingshotting around either Venus, Mercury, or both to lose energy.

    Going around the sun is like just bouncing a perfectly elastic ball.

    Close enough for this mental model, though.

    Edit: in my own defense I am in Vegas doing minor Vegas things.

    While I’d really rather be talking about orbital mechanics or some other geek shit, I do get to see an annular eclipse in totality in a beautiful national park. That’s certainly a once in a lifetime event.

      • PetDinosaurs@lemmy.world
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        1 year ago

        I intend to. Provided I don’t get trapped in the desert for days. We’re bringing extra food, water, and eclipse glasses to auction to the highest bidder, though.

        We didn’t even plan this. The opportunity came up before I even knew that I could take a tour and see this.