NASA’s Psyche Spacecraft Uses Mars for Gravity Assist
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NASA’s Psyche Spacecraft Uses Mars for Gravity Assist

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NASA’s Psyche spacecraft successfully flew by Mars on May 15, 2026, utilizing the planet's gravity to increase its speed and adjust its trajectory. This maneuver served as both a propulsion method and a preparatory step for future mission phases.

A composite photo released on July 17, 2026, depicts the crescent of Mars growing larger as the Psyche spacecraft approached. The flyby was specifically designed to gain speed and slightly tilt the spacecraft’s trajectory, according to NASA.

The maneuver wasn't solely about altering course; it also provided an opportunity for the mission team to prepare for subsequent stages of the journey. Details regarding what those preparations entailed were not specified in the source material.

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