Lesson 5: Analyzing the Thrusters

Key Idea

Investigating a crash requires analyzing the mechanical capabilities of the thrusters. The Force-Velocity Model allows investigators to simulate different scenarios. They calculate the expected velocity change for a "standard" thruster burn versus a "maximum power" burn.

This analysis establishes a baseline. If the pod stopped faster than a maximum burn could explain, then thruster force alone cannot explain the event. This systematic evaluation helps eliminate impossible scenarios and narrows down the list of plausible causes.

Key Idea

Based on the capability analysis, investigators form scientific hypotheses. If the observed motion change (reversing direction) was far greater than what the thrusters typically produce, it suggests a discrepancy in the force calculation.

One hypothesis is that the thrusters malfunctioned and fired with excessive strength.