SPACE — Weapons can actually be taken into space, although not into the intergalactic vacuum. For decades, the standard survival kit for Russian cosmonauts has included weapons.
This cosmonaut weapon is not just an ordinary weapon. “But it’s a kind of all-purpose fancy weapon with three barrels and a folding stock that doubles as a shovel and contains a swinging machete,” says space historian James Oberg.
Space weapons were issued in case the cosmonauts needed them on their return to Earth. They can protect themselves if an emergency landing of a Soyuz spacecraft occurs in a dangerous area.
But still, cosmonauts could theoretically fire their weapons before landing on Earth. So what if, during a spacewalk, a cosmonaut shot up at Jupiter?
Also Read: What Happens If You Fire a Weapon in Space?
He should feel free to shoot from the hip. According to Robert Flack, a physicist at University College London, Jupiter’s enormous gravitational field would likely suck up a bullet even if it wasn’t aimed properly.
“Jupiter is so big, it will attract the bullet and then follow a curved path all the way to the planet,” Flack said.
When that happens, it produces serious power. According to Schultz, if a bullet were fired directly at Jupiter, the planet’s gravity would accelerate the ammunition to incredible speeds. The bullet will travel almost 60 kilometers per second by the time it crosses the threshold of the gas giant.
Shooting someone in the back is an act of cowardice. “In space, you could theoretically shoot yourself in the back,” says Schultz.
You can do this, for example, while orbiting around a planet. Since objects orbiting planets are actually always in free fall, you have to get the settings right.
Also Read: Why Is Outer Space Empty?
To do this, you have to shoot horizontally at the right height so that the bullet can circle the planet and return to its starting place, you. Additionally, consider how far you will be kicked back when shooting.
“The goal has to be perfection,” says Schultz.
2023-10-02 21:34:00
#Space #Shot #Return
