For the time travel method, please see slingshot effect.
The gravitational slingshot is a method of utilizing the gravitational pull of a large interstellar body as a means of propulsion. This technique is achieved by flying in a steep parabolic partial orbit around the body. It often appeared as if the object being propelled will crash into the body.
This technique was used in 2269 by Captain James T. Kirk in order to fool a malevolent entity into leaving the USS Enterprise. (TAS: "Beyond the Farthest Star")
It was also used in 2366 by Captain Jean-Luc Picard to escape a booby-trapped asteroid field. (TNG: "Booby Trap")
External links[]
- Gravitational slingshot at Memory Beta, the wiki for licensed Star Trek works
- Gravitational slingshot at Wikipedia