Gravity well (physics)
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Template:SeeWikipedia In physics, a gravity well is the gravitational potential field around a massive body (a particular kind of potential well). Physical models of gravity wells are sometimes used to illustrate orbital mechanics. Gravity wells are frequently confused with general relativistic embedding diagrams, but the two concepts are unrelated.[1]
Large objects can generate gravitational fields that extend far into space. Consequently, human slipspace navigation is hindered by the effect these gravity wells have upon the quantum field of the Slipstream, and ships must make their calculations away from such factors. With an increased resolution of the Slipstream, such as that possessed by Forerunner and, consequently, Covenant slipspace matrices, calculations can be made to compensate for this effect.[2]
The Forerunners, particularly the Prometheans, were known to use gravity well technology as a form of tractor beam, in order to keep certain starships from escaping by pinning them down in place. The Master Chief was forced to take a Mammoth along with a contingent of SPARTAN-IVs and some Marines in order to destroy several of these such devices in order to allow the UNSC Infinity to escape Requiem.[3]
Gravitational slingshot
Gravitational slingshot refers to use of the relative movement and gravity of a celestial body to alter the path and speed of a spacecraft. This maneuver is commonly known as "slingshot orbit", and has been used in numerous occasions. Preston Cole was known to be adept in using a planet's gravity well to his advantage in space combat.[4]
- In Halo Wars, the gravity well of an artificial star within a small Shield World was used to accelerate the UNSC Spirit of Fire to safety after creating a chain reaction and sending the star into its supernova state.[5]
- In Halo: First Strike, Cortana used the gravity well of Basis to slingshot the Master Chief's Longsword interceptor around it and simultaneously save survivors from Installation 04.
