ElongatedTime t1_it1fuyg wrote
It’s not really stealing momentum. The velocity that it enters the Earth’s SOI is exactly the same as when it exits the SOI. The difference is the direction that it is heading, putting it on a more elliptical heliocentric orbit.
plastic_astronomer t1_it1sl8o wrote
It 100% gains momentum. The Earth slows down just a tiny bit and that momentum is given to the space craft. Not just a change in direction but also straight up faster. You can read more here. https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gravity_assist
livinginspace t1_it1s1d9 wrote
Source? I'm pretty sure this is a slingshot maneuver, and they will always steal momentum from the planetary body.
[deleted] t1_it1ug10 wrote
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