P2_1 Interplanetary Golf: Driving to Escape Velocity

Abstract

This paper set out to investigate whether a golf ball could be hit to escape velocity from the
surface of various celestial bodies. The results are shown on a 3D surface of all theoretical escape
velocities for a range of radii and masses. Results show that even the famously small ex-planet,
Pluto, unfortunately has an escape velocity higher than can be achieved by a human swing. Notable
examples which have a low enough escape velocity are Hyperion and Phobos.