Retrofire Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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retrofire
[ˈrɛtroʊfaɪər ]
Definition
aerospace technology
Retrofire refers to the process of firing a rocket or booster engine in the opposite direction of travel. This action slows down the vehicle, allowing it to change its trajectory or approach a landing. It is a critical maneuver used during space missions to ensure safe re-entry into the atmosphere or to perform orbital maneuvers. Retrofire systems must be carefully calibrated and precisely executed to prevent catastrophic failure.
Synonyms
decelerate, reverse thrust.
Examples of usage
- The spacecraft engaged in retrofire to initiate descent.
- The engineers checked the retrofire sequence before launch.
- Successful retrofire ensured the satellite reached its correct orbit.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Aerospace Engineering
- Retrofire is a critical maneuver during re-entry for spacecraft, ensuring they do not crash.
- The first successful retrofire was during the Apollo 11 mission, crucial for the safe return of astronauts to Earth.
- Modern spacecraft like SpaceX’s Dragon utilize sophisticated retrofire techniques to land on platforms efficiently.
History
- Early rockets in the mid-20th century began experimenting with retrofire techniques leading to safer landings.
- The concept evolved significantly after World War II when advancements in jet propulsion were made.
Pop Culture
- Movies like 'Gravity' showcase spacecraft retrofire to depict dramatic landings or escapes.
- In video games featuring space exploration, retrofire is often used as a gameplay mechanic to save the player from crashes.
Physics
- Retrofire showcases Newton's third law of motion: for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction.
- The effectiveness of retrofire depends on the velocity and angle at which it's deployed, impacting the landing accuracy.
Origin of 'retrofire'
Main points about word origin
- The term combines 'retro' meaning 'backward' and 'fire' referring to igniting engines.
- Initially used in rocketry, the word emphasizes the action of firing engines to decelerate a spacecraft.
The term 'retrofire' combines the prefix 'retro-' meaning 'backwards' or 'in reverse' with the word 'fire,' referring to the ignition of a rocket engine. The concept emerged in the early days of rocketry when engineers and scientists developed methods to control the flight of rockets and spacecraft. As space exploration advanced in the mid-20th century, retrofire became a critical part of mission planning and execution, particularly for reentry scenarios. It is a testament to the ingenuity and precision required in aerospace technology.