First gravity-assist manoeuvre using Earth

The first gravity-assist maneuver using Earth was executed by the European Space Agency's Giotto spacecraft. This maneuver involved the spacecraft utilizing Earth's gravitational pull to increase its speed and alter its trajectory as it traveled through space. The Giotto mission was primarily aimed at studying Halley's Comet, and the gravity-assist technique was crucial for enabling the spacecraft to reach its destination efficiently. By leveraging the gravitational influence of Earth, Giotto was able to gain the necessary velocity to continue its journey into the outer solar system. This method of using a planet's gravity to assist in spacecraft navigation has since become a standard practice in space exploration, allowing missions to conserve fuel and extend their operational range. The successful execution of this maneuver marked a pivotal advancement in the field of astrodynamics and mission planning, demonstrating the effectiveness of gravity assists in interplanetary travel. The Giotto mission ultimately provided valuable data about Halley's Comet, contributing to our understanding of comets and the early solar system.