How do scientists guide space probes?

1 Answer
Phillip E.
May 28, 2016

Space probes are guided by complex computer models.

Explanation:

The positions of the Sun, Moon and other planets can be calculated from complex polynomial equations from astronomical data sets. The most current useful data is the DE430 data from NASA.

The data was modified for the Horizons mission to Pluto which improved the model of Pluto's orbit to allow the satellite to reach it.

The data consists of terms for polynomial equations in terms of time in Julian centuries fro J2000 - 2001-01-01 12:00:00.

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