We analyze solar escape as a special case of the restricted three-body problem. We systematically vary the parameters of our model solar system to show how the optimal launch angle and minimum escape speed depend on the mass and size of the earth. In some cases, it is best to launch near the direction of the earth’s motion, but slightly outward; in other cases, it is best to launch near the perpendicular to the earth’s motion, but inward toward the sun (so as to obtain a solar gravity assist). Between direct escapes for high launch speeds and trapped trajectories for low launch speeds is an irregular band of chaotic orbits that reveals some of the complexity of solar escape and the three-body problem.
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