Explore: Ascent Trajectories

JPL technical report TR-32-30 ("Design of Lunar and Interplanetary Ascent Trajectories", Victor C. Clarke, Jr., March 15, 1962), which used Moulton's terminology

launch, which took place on April 6, 1984, marked the first direct ascent trajectory for a Space Shuttle mission. During the mission, Challenger's crew

launch in the first generation of lunar probes, which used direct ascent trajectories and would give way to the second generation probes which had parking

enough for a MAV. In late 2005, a peer-reviewed analysis showed that ascent trajectories to Mars orbit would differ depending on liquid versus solid propulsion

Bob Willen] Willen, Robert E.; Rude, Bradley J. (1993). "Atlas IIAS ascent trajectory design for the SOHO mission". NASA Sti/Recon Technical Report A. 95:

Vernier solo mode was not planned for this launch due to the direct ascent trajectory and VECO was to take place at T+280 seconds, however, a malfunction

only deliver 325 kg (716 pounds) to the Moon on an inaccurate direct ascent trajectory, and the E-6 probe would weigh a minimum of 1,500 kg (3,306 pounds)

although, given the crude launch vehicle guidance system and direct ascent trajectory, the odds of hitting the Moon were slim. However, a lunar flyby rather

separated from Charlie Brown. The rest of the LM's ascent-stage engine fuel was burned to send it on a trajectory past the Moon and into a heliocentric orbit

carried out. On 7 August 2025, CMSA announced that integrated landing and ascent tests have been successfully carried out using a lander test article at