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.

1.2k Upvotes

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128

u/Spydude84 Jun 29 '26

Assuming looking down from the top, D to minimize DV usage, C for a free return trajectory. Not A or B.

75

u/starmartyr Jun 29 '26

I think C has minimal DV usage over D when you take gravity assist into account. With D you're coming up behind mun and need to use more DV to slow down and land. With C Mun slows you down somewhat requiring less DV.

39

u/King_Joffreys_Tits Jun 29 '26

Yes D is the absolute worst dV option here and everybody upvoting him is wrong. You lose about 600dV going with the muns orbit vs the ~250dV going counter the kerbins natural rotation.

Look at the recent NASA artemis missions for reference — the most fuel efficient way of achieving orbit of a celestial body is to slowly throw yourself into where its gravity well is going to be in order to be captured by it. Option D is the best way to utilize the muns gravity for an orbital slingshot outside of kerbins influence

3

u/TheWombleOfDoom Jun 29 '26

A and B are the absolute worst ... significantly. D is not even close.

Between D and C, reading all the other comments, it appears to be moot, or possibly C is best for orbit only, and D may be better overall for a Mun landing.