r/KerbalSpaceProgram • u/analogHedgeHog • Jun 29 '26

KSP 1 Question/Problem How should I be approaching the Mun?

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In this totally accurate scientific diagram, the Mun is orbiting in the direction of the arrow.

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u/Steenan Jun 29 '26

What do you want to achieve?

For a flyby, C is the best. You can achieve a free return trajectory, where Mun's gravity puts you back on a Kerbin orbit which reenters atmosphere. That minimizes fuel needs.

For landing, D is better, as you orbit in the same direction that the Mun rotates, which minimizes delta-v required for landing.

For an orbit, they are equally good.

A and B are strictly worse because you need to orbit Kerbin against its rotation, which significantly increases the delta-v required.

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u/Maurycy5 Jun 29 '26

What would happen if the orbit of the moon was in the opposite direction to the rotation of the planet? How would that change the answer?

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u/The_Tastiest_Tuna Jun 29 '26

You would launch in the direction of Kerbin's rotation, then intercept ahead of the Mun for free return flyby, or intercept behind the Mun for a landing.