A simplified method for obtaining near minimum time low thrust transfers
Abstract
A small computer program has been developed which will generate approximate time optimal low thrust transfers between two arbitrary earth orbits. Vehicle control is achieved by directing the thrust according to a combination of several predefined steering laws. Near minimum time transfers are obtained by iteratively decreasing the time of flight while correcting to the desired end conditions. Trajectories accurate enough to be applied to preliminary mission design can be obtained quickly and at low cost.
- Publication:
-
American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics Conference
- Pub Date:
- June 1979
- Bibcode:
- 1979aiaa.confY....B
- Keywords:
-
- Computer Programs;
- Earth Orbits;
- Low Thrust Propulsion;
- Spacecraft Trajectories;
- Thrust Programming;
- Trajectory Optimization;
- Transfer Orbits;
- Astrodynamics;
- Cost Reduction;
- Graphs (Charts);
- Mission Planning;
- Spacecraft Maneuvers;
- Astrodynamics