Dynamics and control of displaced periodic orbits using solar sail propulsion

Bookless, J. and McInnes, C.R. (2006) Dynamics and control of displaced periodic orbits using solar sail propulsion. Journal of Guidance, Control and Dynamics, 29 (3). pp. 527-537. ISSN 0731-5090

Abstract

Solar-sail propulsion to generate families of displaced periodic orbits at planetary bodies is considered. These highly non-Keplerian orbits are achieved using the constant acceleration from the solar sail to generate an artificial libration point, which then acts as a generator of periodic orbits. The orbit is modeled first using two-body and then three-body dynamics including solar radiation pressure effects. A two-body stability condition for the orbits is derived using both a linear and nonlinear analysis and a Jacobi-type integral to identify zero-velocity surfaces that bound the orbital motion. A new family of highly perturbed orbits is then identified resulting in a set of useful manifolds, which can be used for orbit insertion. A closed-form solution to the two-body case is derived using parabolic coordinates, which allows separation of the Hamiltonian of the problem. It is demonstrated that the manifolds are bound to the surface of a paraboloid. A three-body analysis is performed by using Hill's equations as an approximation to the circular restricted three-body problem. Stationkeeping techniques are also investigated to prevent escape after arrival at the desired highly non-Keplerian orbit.

Actions (login required)