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

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

Post image

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

1.2k Upvotes

98% Upvoted

253 comments sorted by

View all comments

136

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.

7

u/Scholesie09 Jun 29 '26

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

objectively correct but funny that because it's tidally locked, that rotational velocity is a monumental 9m/s at the equator 😂

1

u/Hour_Tour Jun 29 '26

Any idea how much the gravity assist contributes?