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Delta-V Calculator

Formula

To calculate Delta-V:

$\Delta v = V_e \cdot \ln\left(\frac{m_i}{m_f}\right)$

Where:

$\Delta v$ is the change in velocity of the rocket (m/s)
$V_e$ is the exhaust velocity (m/s)
$m_i$ is the initial mass of the rocket (kg)
$m_f$ is the final mass of the rocket (kg)

What is Delta-V?

Delta-V, denoted $\Delta v$ , is a term used in aerospace to describe the change in velocity of a rocket or spacecraft. It represents the impulse per unit mass required to achieve a maneuver, such as changing orbit or landing on a planetary surface. Delta-V is critical for mission planning, as it helps determine the feasibility of maneuvers and the required propulsion capabilities.

Example Calculation

Let's assume an exhaust velocity of 3,000 m/s, an initial mass of 10,000 kg, and a final mass of 4,000 kg.

Using the formula:

$\Delta v = 3{,}000 \cdot \ln\left(\frac{10{,}000}{4{,}000}\right) \approx 3{,}000 \cdot 0.916 = 2{,}748 \text{ m/s}$

The Delta-V is approximately 2,748 m/s.