Basic Maneuvers (Conceptually):

Understand the

purpose

of maneuvers, not the detailed calculations.

• Delta-V (ΔV): Change in velocity needed for a maneuver – think of it as "fuel cost." Lower ΔV is better for efficiency.
• Orbital Insertion: Getting into orbit initially. Requires a large ΔV to counteract gravity.
• Orbit Raising/Lowering: Changing altitude. Visualizing how thrust can change orbit shape.
• Inclination Change: Changing the angle of the orbit. More complex maneuver requiring more ΔV.
• Rendezvous: Matching orbits with another spacecraft for docking. Requires precise orbit control.