// ORBITAL LOGISTICS AND PROPULSION TERM
Impulsive Maneuver
An impulsive maneuver is a theoretical change in a spacecraft's velocity that happens instantly, like a very short, powerful engine burn.
TECHNICAL DEFINITION
An impulsive maneuver is an idealized astrodynamic model representing an instantaneous change in a spacecraft's velocity vector (delta-v) due to a brief, high-thrust engine firing, simplifying trajectory optimization calculations.
BACKGROUND
Recreational diving or sport diving is diving for the purpose of leisure and enjoyment, usually when using scuba equipment. The term "recreational diving" may also be used in contradistinction to "technical diving", a more demanding aspect of recreational diving which requires more training and experience to develop the competence to reliably manage more complex equipment in the more hazardous conditions associated with the disciplines. Breath-hold diving for recreation also fits into the broader scope of the term, but this article covers the commonly used meaning of "scuba diving" for recreational purposes, where the diver is not constrained from making a direct near-vertical ascent to the surface at any point during the dive, and risk is considered low.
READ MORE ON WIKIPEDIASYNONYMS & ALIASES
- Instantaneous burn
- delta-v impulse
USAGE NOTE
Trajectory design often approximates engine burns as impulsive maneuvers for initial calculations.
DEVELOPERS
Organizations developing technology related to Impulsive Maneuver.
Develops and operates advanced rockets and spacecraft, including Starship and Falcon 9, which execute complex impulsive maneuvers for orbital insertion, rendezvous, docking, and deorbit.
A leading provider of propulsion systems for launch vehicles, spacecraft, and missiles. They develop the engines and thrusters critical for performing impulsive maneuvers in space.
A joint venture between Airbus and Safran, developing and supplying propulsion systems for Europe's Ariane launch vehicles and various space applications, essential for orbital changes.
A global aerospace and defense company that designs, builds, and operates a wide range of satellites and spacecraft, all of which rely on impulsive maneuvers for orbit raising, station-keeping, and trajectory adjustments.
Designs, develops, and delivers advanced aerospace and defense systems, including spacecraft and propulsion technologies that enable precise impulsive maneuvers for various missions.
Operates the Electron small orbital launch vehicle and develops Photon satellite platforms, both of which incorporate propulsion systems to execute impulsive maneuvers for orbit insertion and adjustments.
Developing reusable launch vehicles (New Shepard, New Glenn) and lunar landers, which require powerful propulsion systems to perform impulsive maneuvers for launch, orbital flight, and landing.
A company specializing in Earth observation satellites, robotic arms for space, and in-space servicing, requiring precise impulsive maneuvers for mission deployment, orbital maintenance, and rendezvous operations.
Through its subsidiaries like Safran Aircraft Engines and Safran Space, it is a key player in propulsion systems for aerospace, including engines for launch vehicles and spacecraft thrusters used in impulsive maneuvers.