What is the slingshot maneuver?

The slingshot maneuver, also known as a gravitational assist, is a spaceflight technique used to accelerate a spacecraft by using the gravity of a planet or moon. As the spacecraft approaches the celestial body, it is pulled in by its gravitational field, gaining speed as it swings around. After the flyby, the spacecraft is propelled away at a higher velocity, effectively "slingshotting" it towards its next destination. This technique can save fuel and time during long space missions.