Automated design of multiple encounter gravity-assist trajectories
Abstract
Given a range of initial launch dates and a set of target planets, a new approach to planetary mission design is developed, using an automated method for finding all conic solutions. Each point on the diagrams reproduced represents a single ballistic trajectory and is computed by modeling the trajectory as a conic section and solving the corresponding Lambert problem for each set of launch and arrival dates. An example which prescribes a launch period of 1975-2050 and target planets Uranus, Saturn, Jupiter, Neptune and Pluto is described whereby, all possible grand tour missions of this class are found, including the Voyager II trajectory. It is determined that this automated design tool may be applied to a variety of multiple encounter gravity-assist trajectories that are being considered for future missions.
- Publication:
-
Astrodynamics 1989
- Pub Date:
- 1990
- Bibcode:
- 1990asdy.conf..985L
- Keywords:
-
- Ballistic Trajectories;
- Computer Aided Design;
- Encounters;
- Galileo Project;
- Gravitational Effects;
- Trajectory Analysis;
- Interplanetary Flight;
- Jet Propulsion;
- Mission Planning;
- Solar System;
- Astrodynamics