Definition

A type of space flight where a spacecraft uses the gravity of a planet to gain speed and change direction.

Example

The spacecraft performed a swingby of Mars to increase its velocity towards Jupiter.

Conversation

Did you hear about the spaceship's swingby around Mars?

Yeah, I read it can help them gain speed for the next leg of the journey.

It's amazing how they use the planet's gravity for that swingby.

Totally! It's like a cosmic slingshot!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Swingby → The word is formed from "swing" (from Old English *swingan*, meaning to move back and forth) and "by" (meaning near or close to). The term describes a maneuver where a spacecraft moves close to a celestial body to gain speed or change direction.

Memory Tip

Imagine a spacecraft 'moving back and forth' ('swing') near a planet ('by') to gain speed — that's what a swingby does.

Visually Confused Words